Dayana Knight, Paranormal Author

2009-12-09T22:19:00.001-05:00

Well, here we are once again at my weekly author spotlight but unfortunately this week's author had to reschedule her spotlight. As you may know my guest was to be Romance Author, Mallary Mitchell. Something has pulled her away but no worries, I will reschedule her early in the new year.

I don't know about you but the last several weeks has been very busy for me and not in the arena of my writing. That thing called 'real life' has dug in and pulled me out of my author mode. I don't see any light at the end of the reality tunnel until into the new year. I did, however, jot down the completed story for a new erotic novella story recently. I need to lengthen it a bit and flesh it out a bit. But, I have generated an interest in reviewing it for publication after querying the premise. So, I am doing some personal work.

I'd like to take a moment to update you on some things that I have not been able to get to of late.

My newsletter is on hiatus until after the New Year, and I've decided I will only put it out every quarter. It seems to make more sense that way. I am also interested in hearing your ideas on distribution.

I am currently sending a special notice out when the newsletter is available through my loop, Dayana's Happenings, so members can download their copy. I notice that some of my peers send it directly to their mailing list. I'm not sure how to format the newsletter for this type of destribution so any aid is appreciated.

My participation in the loops has suffered immensely the last few months. If anyone is reading this from my various loops please accept my sincere apologies. I hope things to loosen up after the holidays.

I spent last week down with the nasty flu strain going around. But I am feeling much better and moving on to get the homefront ready for the holidays.

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season filled with happiness and joy.

Dayana~

Author Spotlight: Tamelia Tumlin, Paranormal Romance Author

2009-12-03T06:40:00.002-05:00

Oh do I have a treat for you today. Tamelia Tumlin dropped in to share some hot and fiesty vampires with you. Welcome to my Author Spotlight segment, Tamelia.

Thank you for having me, Dayana.

Okay, since it is the holiday season, I think I'd like to begin with the obvious question, what is your favorite holiday? And why?

This is an easy question! LOL. Christmas-hands down! I love everything about it. The lights, sounds, smells. the whole season is special to me. Somehow the spirit of giving has a way of turning any die-hard Scrooge into a holly, jolly elf. :)

I can't debate you there. Isn't it strange how disaster and the holiday season bring out the best in people? I love the season because it's so festive bright and full of good will towards other and animals as well. What made you decide to write?

I knew God gave everyone a special talent and I also knew I couldn't sing, dance, or act, but I could write stories about people falling in love so that's what I did. Now, it's addicting. Once I'm through with one story I can't wait to start on another one with two new characters and a boatload of trouble to work through. :)

Great answer and it is so true of me, as well. You don't even want to hear me bellow out a tune! My mom used to beg me not to sing, especially when I had earphones on, LOL When do you write (daytime, nighttime, on your lunch hour, before the kids get up, after everyone is asleep? In large chunks of time or stolen snippets?)

I write when I can. Day. Night. Holidays. But, I do my best writing at night when I know no one will be needing me for anything and I can concentrate on my hero and heroine.

When was the first moment you felt comfortable saying, “I am a writer?”

When I recieved my first e-mail from a fan. I thought, "Wow! I actually have a fan! Someone really likes my stories." I was so excited, I sent her a free copy of my latest book. From that point on I realized I actually was a writer.

That's wonderful, Tamelia. Did I mention that fan was me??? LOL Just kidding:) Where do you write?

At home. Usually on the couch with my laptop. Sometimes with the TV on (low, of course) and sometimes with just music. I can’t write with complete silence. I have to have some kind of background noise. LOL.

Funny, I love quiet. Just the sounds of the environment around me. A siren in the distance, traffic faroff, the windchimes in my yard, a barking dog or classical music because its background. Okay, that's what I like but most of the time the TV is blairing and my husband is channel surfing or the music is on surround sound and I do everything I can to hit the turn off switch. Do you like to read? Where?

Everywhere. Home. Work. In waiting rooms etc. Right now I’m reading several of Debbie Macomber’s Christmas books.

I love Christmas stories, in fact, I made a promise to myself that this year I would catch as many of my favorites as possible. I love the movies and specials as well as holiday books/stories.

Now on to you. Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?

I’ve always loved vampires and I’ve read many of Amanda Ashley’s novels, so it only seemed natural to write about a deliciously sexy vampire and the woman who loves him. *grin*

Where do you go to think?

I do my best thinking when I’m driving. If I’m stuck on a plot point or character trait a good long drive helps me work through the problem.

Ooooh, I love long drives and yes they can be a great time to work out a plot issue or a strategy to move forward in a story. How do you come up with your title and main characters’ names?

I usually have a working title until the book is at lest 2/3 finished. By that point, I can use the overall theme to find a title which fits the whole book. As for the characters I do come up with their names first and work from there to build three-dimensional characters.

Tell us about your Hero. Do you have a favorite, if you’ve written multiple books?

I tend to fall a little bit in love with all of my heroes, but if I had to choose one I suppose it would be the crown-prince Luke from Her Royal Protégé’. He’s the bad boy ( a biker no less) with a surprisingly tender side and by the time the heroine is finished with him, he’s definitely royal material.

Oooh, he sound hot and an interesting read. And I have to mention that I have read the below mentioned book, Seducing the Night. What a positively wonder vamp read. You want hot romance and a love that transcends time and all else, you will want to pick this one up. Great read!

Links on where to buy my latest books.

Seducing the Night
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/seducing-the-night-p-3713.html

Rana Cartwright wanders into The Voodoo Den for one reason and one reason only. To seduce and kill the man she once loved. The only way she can save her son's life is to destroy the vampire who sired him. There's only one problem. She soon realizes that she never stopped loving the man she must destroy.

Alexandru Milkos has lived six long years of torment since turned by an elder vampire. He lost the only thing that ever mattered to him. His fiancée, Rana.

Now she's back. Though his love for her has never wavered, he senses she has a motive much deadlier than a simple reunion. However, what concerns him the most is the shameful secret he's harbored for the past six years. A secret that could turn Rana away from him forever, that is if he lives long enough for her to realize the truth

Home is Where the Heart Is

http://redrosepublishing.com/bookstore/product_info.php?products_id=624

An unexpected inheritance…

Jenna Wade was homeless, poor and orphaned as a child. Now as an adult she is desperately seeking stability and financial security. An unexpected inheritance promises to bring her the financial freedom she craves: until she reads the clause.

An unexpected love…

Temporarily confined to a wheel chair, Ridge Townsend's stubborn, self-reliant pride refuses to accept his new caregiver's help. He suspects Jenna is nothing more than a con artist who manipulated his mother into writing her into her will. Especially since Jenna maintains that she has never met his mother. With her caring nature and tender heart Jenna is slowly breaking down his defenses and finding a way into his heart. Then he asked her to do the unthinkable: give up her part of the inheritance. How can she choose between financial security and love?

Where to find Tamelia Tumlin:
http://www.tameliatumlin.webs.com/

2009-12-02T19:35:00.001-05:00

Here we are again. Almost another week has flown by. Whoa! Please don't miss my Author Spotlight segment tomorrow. Tamelia Tumin will be here sharing her latest releases with us. One is quite a spicey vamp romance. I've read it myself and highly recomment it:)

I'm down with the flu. Not good timing. Hopefully it will pass as quickly as the weeks have, LOL

Well...

Just dropped in to say "hey!" Going to go lie down now with another cup of medicinal tea.

Nite.

Author Spotlight: Christine Columbus, Romance Author

2009-11-26T08:00:00.003-05:00

Please welcome Author, Christine Columbus today. Hi, Christine, glad to have you here today. Tell me a bit about yourself. What makes you angry, happy, sad, snoopy dance?

Glad to be here, Dayana. Well, Christine Columbus, is my ‘real name’. I am 50 and a MT Nester (empty nester) – my kids are off to college, although they left behind their Jack-A-Poo, (but she has a doggy door)

So, for the first time in my life I have no responsibilities and no expectations-- (I don’t expect the kids to have cleaned the house or taken out the garbage…I don’t expect the dust bunnies to have prepared me a meal…while I slugged away at my day job)

My Motto - No Expectations and No Disappointments Now when I get home from work…everything is exactly like I left it…No surprises…(unless the SO sneaks into town for a visit)

LOL Your motto I believe is universal. I could carry the same myself:) Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
Writing is like Desserts… I don’t eat them because I am trying to gain weight. I eat them because they are Pure Pleasure…I don’t write because I want to be rich…I write because I love to entertain.

What a wonderful metaphor, Christine, and so eloquently put. Great answer to the question and one I will surely remember:) When was the first moment you felt comfortable saying, “I am a writer?”

When my son was in first grade, we were at a school function; a parent walked up to me and asked, “What do you do?”

Before I could answer my son said, “My mom is a writer.”

“You are.” The parent said.

What could I say? My son was correct, while he played at the park I wrote, when he was busy playing with his toys, I wrote. I didn’t want to embarrass my son and as hard as it was, I said. “Yes, I am a writer.”

Where do you write? Besides the park that is...

I write everywhere, at home standing at the pub table, huddle beneath the covers in bed with the laptop on my lap, (I now know that you can’t set your laptop on top of your down comforter - apparently the little fan can’t suck in a cool air—the name laptop is misleading…)

Hehehe... I learned that nifty little fact myself the hard way. Do you put pieces of yourself or your life in your stories?

No, but I do put pieces of other people’s lives into my stories…which makes my friends a little nervous.

What is your least favorite thing to do as an author? Allow me to clarify: query, write a synopsis, write a blurb, market, you get the picture.
I hate to write the end of anything…short story, novel, letter… I just love doing the beginnings – I can write and re-write a beginning a million time. The start of something is so magical. The ending of something is depressing. But there is one thing that I don’t like to start…housework, because there is no ending…just lots of middle.

Again, I have to agree with you. I really love the way this woman thinks, don't you? What is the most uncharacteristic thing you have ever done?

I haven’t done it yet…. (wink)

I have lived my entire life in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I am a Romance Novelist for The Wild Rose Press, with a number of short stories and soon to be released novel, ‘The Perfect Country and Western Story. My latest poem appeared in the Bloomington Art Center’s Literary production Waters. my flash fiction appeared at MnArtist.org. Other publishing credits include creative non-fiction, poetry and children’s fiction stories.

Tell us a bit about your latest release, Trust Your Heart and what inspired you to write the novel.

They say, ‘write what you know.’ I know love, men, co-workers and kids. That’s what you’ll find in “Trust Your Heart” My latest release from The Wild Rose Press.

The idea for Trust Your Heart…
Waking up late, I slugged into jeans and a sweatshirt - my co-workers wore jeans, soiled t-shirts and construction boots. No one cared what I wore as long as I entered payroll on time.
There I was stuck away in the corner of the basement, in an area no larger than a storage room; I sat at table with my back to the department manager. Keystrokes, copies, and digging through old dusty records eight hours a day as the boss rambled on … but the job paid the bills.

Then out of the blue a handsome man walks in wearing a suit with a trench coat folded over his arm…

“Chrissy?”

My head snaps around so fast. Everyone called me Christine. I look closer. Couldn’t be? “Dave?” No way. This professional man couldn’t be the guy that had hair past his shoulders and stood outside the school smoking instead of attending class.

He stepped up to my desk and pointed a picture on my desk. “Your daughter?”

“Yes, she’s eleven.”

“Wow, she looks exactly like you at that age. That’s what it’s all about…family,” he said with a faraway look in his eyes.
That conversation and the following piece of prose sparked - “Trust Your Heart.”
Ever Wonder How Angels Fly?

The snow white play-sand in a turtle shaped plastic box was supposed to keep my children entertained, but like most things reality was different than fantasy. Instead of being outside in the sunshine, building castles they were tugging on the edge of my t-shirt as I tried to vacuum the sand hills from the carpeted steps.

“Mom, mom, mommy!”

Only a little further. I ignored my Max and Emma, stretching the hose out as I held the humming machine in place with my knee. Sweat trickled down my back. One more step. The Dirt Devil’s roar came to an abrupt stop. Crap! I didn’t need to see the limp cord to know I had once again pulled the plug from the outlet.

Wearily, I dropped to the step, my elbows balancing on my knees and my palm holding up my chin.

“Mom, mom, mommy!” Max persisted.

“Yes,” came out on a sigh.

“Is this heaven?” he asked.

Max’s sky blue eyes gazed expectantly at me. I pushed the damp hair from the back of my neck. “No, this is not heaven.” I arched my back trying to ease my sore muscles.

“How do you know?” His small hand rested on my forearm.

How could this be heaven? My muscles tensed, a beautiful Saturday morning, stuck inside cleaning the house, with a list of chores that never ended.

Max’s soft pudgy hand pressed against my cheek. “This could be heaven,” his sweet voice softly spilled into my ear.

Two healthy children, a home, job…”Yes, this could be--”

“This isn’t heaven,” Emma interrupted with arms folded tightly across her chest.

I nodded. “It might be--”

Posturing like a General ready to face battle her blue eyes darkened. “No, it’s not.”

Not wanting to argue with a six year old, yet not willing to toss away the notion that maybe eternal bliss wasn’t something rewarded at the end of a successful life but, rather experienced by living in the moment…If I could teach my children to find happiness in the most mundane activities—

“Is too,” Max’s voice pitched higher.

“Is not,” Emma shouted.

Wanting to defuse the situation, I reached out. Emma resisted my hug. “This could be heaven,” I spoke softly.

Her head shook as she pushed from my arms. “It. Is. Not.”

“Why?” I asked suddenly curious as to what could possibly be so awful in her little life that would prevent this perfect Saturday from being paradise.

A long slow sigh slipped from her lips. “Because of gravity, it’s not heaven.”

“Huh?” I shook my head.

Emma leaned closer. “In heaven there is no gravity. That’s how angels fly.”

BLURB:
Michelle, a divorced mother of two preschool children living in a Minneapolis suburb, maintains her subscription to her hometown newspaper. So when she bumps into childhood friend David, she already knew he was successful and a bachelor, but what the paper forgot to mention was how he had matured into a handsome man.

Memories of their past resurface, and once more, she envisions playing house with him. Although this time it's the adult-rated version, where he's selling software that threatens her job, her co-workers refuse to play nice, her ex-husband is acting just plain weird and the hometown paper is in an uproar over who is sending her flowers and who she should date. Michelle doesn’t know whom to believe until she steps back and looks deep within and trusts her heart.

Visit me at my Website: http://www.christinecolumbus.net/

'Tis the season...

2009-11-21T09:32:00.000-05:00

Okay, you gotta love this! I just couldn't resist. It may be the only decoration I buy this year, for as we know dollars are extra tight for many but I just had to do it! LOL

Who doesn't absolutely love "A Charlie Brown's Christmas?" I grew up with this cartoon and to me, it is Christmas!

I also love Allistair Sim's version of "The Christmas Carol" as well "The American Christmas Carol" with Henry Winkler, "One Magic Christmas," "Prancer," "All I Want For Christmas," "The Little Matchstick Girl," which they never seem to put on any more, oh and so many more.

Throughout my life, year after year, I settle in and watch these holiday specials over and over again. What do you like? What are your favorites?

I LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR! So bright, so cheery, though I do miss the northeast the most this time of year, as unless shipped in, we don't get snow and Christmas isn't Christmas without snow...

Have a wonderful weekend!

D~

Author Spotlight: Annette Snyder, Novelist

2009-11-19T06:30:00.005-05:00

Good Morning, Annette.
Thank you so much for stopping in today. Well... Let's get down to it, shall we?

What inspired you to write your first book?
I was in a museum with my kids. There was an exhibit on orphan trains that ran across the USA and stopped at all the little towns giving homeless/parentless children away. While I was reading one of the stories on a story board, someone tapped me on the shoulder and said, “My name’s Sally. Write about me.” When I turned around, no one was there but I had this idea for Sally Murphy. Turned out to be a great story plus seven.

Wow! what an interesting inspiration, Annette. Gives me chills:) How many books have you written?
I’ve got twelve pubbed books, counting my December release, Travis Pass MegaBook II. If you’re into historical reads, it’s a great bargain as you get 3 books in one. Travis Pass MegaBook I released in October. I’ve got another that I’m submitting and maybe 30 that I have to get ready to go out. Then I could actually name three characters right now begging me to write their stories so—MANY!

You are a busy little bee, aren't you? How do you decide on their topic?
My stories usually just come to me. When I get the idea, I write whatever comes into my head. The very first draft is really really rough and hardly even readable but I get the beginning, middle and end down while it’s fresh in my mind. I put it in an idea folder if my muse stops there and I go back and rework it when the urge strikes or I have time. Sally Murphy tapped me on the shoulder. My grandpa Doda whispered to write a story about whistles for him…which you can read on my website. They say to keep a pad and pencil by the bed, well, I leave my computer on and it’s not unusual to find me at my desk in the middle of the night.

LOL I know exactly what you mean. The other night I woke from a sound sleep with a title rolling around in my head then some story ideas so insistent that I had to get up and find my notepad and jot them all down because I knew they would be long gone in the morning. Then the next morning I did an outline for the story line of a new novel! Amazing how the writer's mind works, isn't it? Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
I once read an interview with a famous author, and I don’t remember which one, but she said only the top 10% of writers actually make money doing it. I also talked to a famous author and asked him what he thought was the catch to make it and he replied, “Luck. Just plain luck.” So I guess I write because I love it and hope that someday I’ll have some of that luck!

You and me both, but I truly love the art as it is my stress relief when reality becomes too overbearing. I am able to lose myself in the worlds I've created:) What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used to gain visibility for you and your book(s)?
I do the bookmarks and the flyers, speaking engagements and talking to the local booksellers. Promoting with people I know. I advertised with a group in Romantic Times and next year have purchased advertising in a Nebraska magazine because I’m a Nebraska author.

What are some unique methods?
I joined a regional marketing group that co-ops with other Nebraska producers and gets my novels to many more eyes than I could on my own. It does cost a little, but I’m finding the publicity is expanding my fan base and, because it’s a co-op, much of the marketing that I wouldn’t normally be able to afford, is done because I’m in the group. I also write a bit for one of the regional papers when they ask for stories about things. Usually they give away a short blurb about who the writer is so, since it’s a regional newspaper, I get to reach thousands of readers for free.

Do you write every day? Or when the muse strikes?
I write every single day. Sometimes it’s just a little, sometimes so much I don’t get anything else done. I hold a real job so I don’t write from 8-5 unless I’m off!

You know? I was just about to ask you that. So many of us hold full-time jobs and have families to care for so writing can be the tiniest snippets of time. Me? I usually take time off from the day job and busy myself with my craftwork. Time is a hard commodity to find sometimes. Where did you get the inspiration for (your current book)?
My latest release, November’s, is Eureka Springs. It’s the second in a series and it tells the story of one of the secondary characters from Viveka’s War, released in January and getting some awesome reviews.

Congratulations on your great reviews, Annette.

How do you come up with your title and main characters’ names?
In Viveka’s War, I knew I wanted my heroine to have an unusual name as it’s a story based on my grandmother’s life and she has an unusual name. For Eureka Springs, the main character reminded me of my great uncle and he had a girlfriend so I named the characters after them. Usually, I try and pick names for the time period unless the characters tell me otherwise.

Do you put pieces of yourself or your life in your stories? Doesn’t every author?

Well, I know I do:) How long did you write seriously before your first book was published?
Five years

Me, too! My first novel took three years to complete and two more years to publish, so a grand total of five years.

How many manuscripts had you written by the time you had your first publication?
By the time Sally Murphy came out, I had five or six more in the works.

Why do you write?
I write because one day I woke up in the middle of the night from this dream about two hot guys in a forest that found a woman and felt the need to save her. I woke up, wrote it down and it turned into sixty thousand words. That book is far from publishing stage as I’ve learned so much in the last years about writing, but someday I’m going to revamp it and see if anyone wants it.

Hmm...that sounds like something I would like to find out more about. Sounds quite interesting, Annette. Do you have an upcoming release? Eureka Springs came out November 1st.

Here’s a blurb:

Beginning life in a new direction is harder than Ruth Seidle realizes when hidden secrets surface. With an obscure past exposed, can Ruth forsake lies for honesty in effort to correct past mistakes?
John Vickers loved one woman. Tragedy, and an affair uncovered, forces a new path for him. Can he put distrust aside and let another close to his heart?

Where can we find your upcoming release? When will it be available?
You can purchase this title, along with all my others at http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/ and you can find out about them and more on what I do at http://annettesnyder.atspace.com/

Are any of your characters modeled after people you know?
My husband is the main character in Liberty Road. He tells everyone that he’s the hero in a romance novel.

Fun question (possible blackmail material down the line, LOL) What is the most uncharacteristic thing you have ever done? Please, no censoring? I have no qualms about placing a content warning on my blog!
There was a hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska with a swimming pool on the roof. My boyfriend at the time, and some friends, took the elevator to the highest floor we could, snuck out the fire escape (I think it was 10 floors up) and climbed to the roof for a swim. We did get caught by the security guard who was watching the elevator and knew no one was rooming any higher than the fifth floor. He ushered us out of the hotel. It was a big thing for me as I’m afraid of heights and going on that fire escape was so terrifying. Still, the water was warm and the view of the city from there…amazing!

Great story, Annette. Thank you for sharing it. The most important thing is you didn't let your fear of heights stop you, LOL
As a great big thank you to Danaya and her readers, I’d Like to give away a copy of Eureka Springs, with a handy book tote for all your reading needs, to one lucky winner who comments on Dayana’s blog for my interview. Just post a comment for your chance to win and thanks for joining me here today!

Oh boy! A Prize to boot! Thank you, Annette for dropping by. It's been great getting to know you better. I will be looking up your work. Best sales to you with your new releases and don't be a stranger. I'd love to see you back.

More about Annette:
My novels are available at www.whiskeycreekpress.com as well as www.fictionwise.com and their affiliates. My work is also available at www.growneb.com and their year round and holiday stores, some local stores in my area and at The Great Platte River National Archway Monument in Kearney, Nebraska.

Author Spotlight: Kelley Heckart, Historical Fantansy Romance

2009-11-12T06:35:00.043-05:00

Good morning, everyone! Good morning, Kelley. Great having you here today.

Great to be here, Dayana.

Well, might as well get started, shall we? I can't wait to hear all about you and your upcoming releases, Kelley. What inspired you to write your first book?

I had been writing short stories and my Creative Writing teacher encouraged me to turn one of them into a novel. I'm not sure I would have done it without her encouragement.

Sounds like you had wonderful support. I took creative writing classes in school. I loved them and the teacher. But I digress...

Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?
I write because I love doing it. I wouldn't do it otherwise because writing is the hardest job I have ever had and I make very little money.

Ain't that the truth, LOL All you newbie writers out there, if you are in this for the money, take heed. It really doesn't work that way for most, though we strive to get our stories told and perhaps recognized by larger circles, most of us just love to tell our stories because we love to. And, at least for me, it's like a stress release, a way to escape life's realities which are not always on the brighter side of the spectrum. I get to live through my characters and their adventures and hopefully so do my readers.
What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used to gain visibility for you and your book(s)?
I am all over the Internet. I have a website, blog, myspace page, Facebook page and fan page. I am on twitter, Goodreads and various other social groups. I also write for two other blogs. I also belong to a bunch of Yahoo groups related to writing and romance books. Promotion takes up a huge amount of my time, but it does pay off.

I do agree with you, Kelley. I feel the more visible you make yourself the better. I, as well, try to keep my name out there. I belong to many of the same venues and love to mingle with my peers. I love that this craft is a small close knit community and we all are out there helping each other.

What is your favorite holiday? And why?
I love Halloween because of the whole mysterious and frightening nature of it. It's fun to dress up as someone else for one night of the year. Even if I don't go out on that night, I like to pop in a scary movie. I think I like to scare myself.

As everyone is aware, Halloween/Samhain is also my ultimate favorite:) Good choice, LOL

What type of stories do you like to write and why?
I write Celtic historical romances/fantasy because I am inspired by the ancient Celts and the stories about them, especially the ones about the Irish gods, the Tuatha de Danaan, and the ones about the Irish Fianna, fierce warriors with the hearts of poets. All of these old tales influence me as a writer.

When do you read? Where?
My favorite time to read is early evening and I like to read in bed. I find that to be the most comfortable place to read.

Where did you get the inspiration for (your current book)?

I was researching the Picts and I came across an Irish warlord who had a mysterious past and may have fathered a king of the Picts. It fascinated me and I decided to make him the hero of my latest release, Cat's Curse.

Where do you go to think?
This is a good question. I don't try to think, things just pop into my head in the weirdest places like the shower or when I am cleaning the house. That's usually when I come up with a plot line or fix a plot problem.

Funny you mention that. The other night I woke up at three or four in the morning with a niggling idea and a phrase running through my mind over and over like a broke record. So intense I finally had to get up and I began an outline for a new novel and gained a title. So the ideas do just "pop up" at the weirdest times.

Do you have an upcoming release?

My upcoming releases from Awe-Struck are Night's Daughter and Beltaine's Song. Night's Daughter is the prequel to Of Water and Dragons and Ravenwolf and is set amid the battle between the Titans and the Olympic gods. I mix history with Greek/Celtic mythology in this book and draw some parallels that some people might not like. I love stirring up controversy. This unplanned series revolves around reincarnation and enduring love.

The second book in my Dark Goddess trilogy is coming out early next year. Beltaine's Song covers the time when Aedan is finally king of Dal Riata. Of course, being a king isn't an easy task especially with a Dark Goddess trying to destroy you, and having to contend with earthly foes as well. I also introduce another being who is somehow associated with Cat Anna (Cailleach). Their son, Gartnait, is one of the few people who can see her, but she may or may not be a threat. I had a theme going on through this second book that although spring brings about new life, it is also the time when clans battled one another so spring also brings about the harsh sound of the battle horn, and danger. I also have something coming out December 21 from Noble Romance Publishing. My sweet, short story titled A Winter Solstice Kiss is a contemporary paranormal is part of Noble Romance's Christmas/Holiday anthology.

Congratulations on all your releases, Kelley. You certainly are a busy girl:) Your books sound wonderfully intriguing. I will have to put them on my wish list!

Where can we find your upcoming releases? When will they be available?
Night's Daughter will be available sometime in mid 2010. Beltaine's Song is scheduled for early 2010. Both books will be available at the http://www.awe-struck.net/ A Winter Solstice Kiss will be available from http://www.nobleromance.com/ Release dates and links will be postsed on my website at http://www.kelleyheckart.com/

What TV shows do you watch?
I am addicted to the television. My favorite shows right now are Supernatural, Smallville, The Closer, Saving Grace, Monk, Eureka, Warehouse 13, Ghost Whisperer, Bones and How I Met Your Mother. I watch a lot of the VH1 reality shows like Rock of Love and Daisy of Love and write snarky blogs about them on myspace for kicks.

Do you use music as a motivational source when writing?
Yes. This helps me when my muse decides to bail on me. I think the music coaxes him/her out. I haven't decided if my muse is male or female. My favorite music to write to lately is Icelandic Metal like Apocalyptica and Nightwish, but I also like to listen to Celtic music and other rock bands.

Tell us where else to find you.
My links:
http://www.blogger.com/goog_1257939303851

http://www.blogger.com/goog_1257939303851

http://www.blogger.com/goog_1257939303851

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelley-Heckart/111838455604

My book page at Awe-Struck
http://www.king-cart.com/Awe-Struck/category=Kelley+Heckart/exact_match=exact

More about Kelley:

Kelley writes Celtic historical romances with fantasy elements. Her stories reflect her passion for ancient history, storytelling and the supernatural. She is drawn in particular to the ancient Celts who are shrouded in mystery and associated with the otherworldly realm of the Fae. With her pen and paper, she recreates long ago places filled with fierce warriors, bold women, magic, conflict and romance.

Two of her favorite things are sunrises and men in kilts. She can be found online at http://www.kelleyheckart.com/

2009-11-11T07:19:00.000-05:00

Morning! I've been a very bad girl. It has been so busy, I seemed to have neglected my blog. But, alas, here I am! Just dropped by to fill you in on some highlights:)

My Halloween short, One Blessed Samhain, is available at Yareah.com which is a bilingual magazine out of Spain. I'd love for you to take a look.

I've got the very talented Kelley Heckart, Celtic Fantasy Romanc author, here tomorrow. Please don't miss her. She's wonderful and has some very fresh and new releases coming our way.

Due to time constraints and the hectic month of October, there will not be a November issue of my newsletter, but I promise the December issue will be full of Holiday fun and cheer. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in a day!

Well I'm off to ready for the day job! Wishing you all a magical day. Talk soon.

D~

AND THE WINNER IS...

2009-11-02T21:59:00.000-05:00

Evening all!
Hope your Halloween/All Hallow's Eve/Samhain were all you wished them to be. I know mine was:)

Well I wrote the participant initials on the back of my working pile of 3/5 cards really tiny at the top turned them over and shuffled and shuffled and...

Oh...are you waiting for me?

Sorry, let me get to the point before someone blows an important vessel. LOL Anyway, I picked a card turned it over...

And the winner of the Halloween Free Read Goodie bag is...

Lisa Finch!!!

Congratulations, Lisa. Please shoot me your snail mail address, and I'll get your goodie bag out to you:)

Thank you all for your participation. This was so much fun, I will be doing the Free Read again for the winter holidays, so as the saying goes, stay tuned.

Dayana~

A Blessed All Souls Day...

2009-11-01T08:39:00.000-05:00

I've gotten up this morning and lit candles for all of those I've lost in recent years, people and loved pets. My mind is heavy with memory and my soul heavy with loss, though I know they are with me always and I pray for blessing on their souls as well as those of the living.

May you remember those you have lost as may their souls be eternally at peace and blessed as well.

Of note:
Origins
Halloween is now celebrated beyond Britain and Ireland but it dates back more than two thousand years to the Celtic Samhain festival. November 1 was the first day of the Celtic New Year. The transition between the old and new year was when the Celts believed the souls of the dead and evil spirits could visit the living world.

The Catholic church moved All Saints Day from May to November, perhaps in an effort to contain the Pagan festival of Samhain. Samhain then became known as Halloween - the eve before All Hallows or All Saints Day.**

Dayana~

**http://www.bbc.co.uk/taysideandcentralscotland/content/articles/2008/10/15/halloween_taycent_feature.shtml

2009-10-31T14:09:00.012-04:00

Happy Halloween

A Blessed Samhain

May your tricks or treats be safe and your lost souls be blessed.

***Today is your last chance to qualify for the "Halloween Free Read" gift bag. For details please visit my website and click on the contest button. Looking forward to drawing a winner tomorrow evening.***

Author Spotlight: Faith V. Smith, Paranormal Romance

2009-10-29T06:53:00.006-04:00

Please welcome Faith V. Smith, creator of the Bound By Blood series and a dear friend of mine. I believe with her are a couple of very hunky Vamps to keep things interesting:)

Hello, Faith!

Hey, Dayana. Thanks for having me today. Can't wait to get started. Our last get together was such a hoot!

I know. It was a lot of fun and so steamy with those big vampire hunks you travel with, LOL I don't suppose they'll be joining us today, will they?

No, sorry. They had other obligations. To be honest, Dayana, I think we wore them out last time.

LOL That's a good possibility. Well, let's get started then...

Tell me about yourself. What makes you angry, happy, sad, snoopy dance?

Angry:When people don’t seem to listen, and when I can’t fix something myself.

Happy: I am happy when I’m peaceful.

Sad: Sad, well thinking of things I could have done that might have changed things.

Snoopy Dance: When the blessings come in from above.
When was the first moment you felt comfortable saying, “I am a writer?”

I don’t think I have a first moment. I’ve always thought I was a writer since I penned my first poem in my teens. If we had to define it, it would be when my first 3 songs I wrote were recorded.

Wow, Faith! You wrote songs and got them recorded? That's pretty impressive. What kind of songs?

Southern Gospel songs with soul and some where you just had to tap your feet.

Sounds fun and inspirational. What type of stories do you like to write and why?

I try to write stories that give hope, are full of sensuality, and make readers believe anything can happen.

Where did you get the inspiration for (your current book)?

A Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention in Kansas City. The Vampire Ball that Heather Graham threw.

How many manuscripts had you written by the time you had your first publication?

3 full.

Do you have an upcoming release?

Dunbar’s Curse, the second book in the Bound By Blood, The Legends, my vampire series will be out March 19th 2010. Miles is a great character, and I love how he loves the heroine, Hope.

Where can we find your upcoming release? When will it be available?

The Wild Rose Press, Amazon, Barnes and Noble and others. March 19th 2010.
Dunbar’s Curse, the second book in the Bound By Blood, The Legends, my vampire series will be out March 19th 2010.

Tell us about your Hero. Do you have a favorite, if you’ve written multiple books?

I think my first hero in my medieval. He’s not had his place in the limelight yet, but I’m hoping. So please don’t tell my vamp boys. They might get upset…lol.

Your secret is safe with me, no worries:) Now I think I'd like to hear a bit about your current release, Kensington's Soul. Zacke is one hot vamp. I know I've met him up close and personal:)

Vampires can be such sensual and titillating creatures when it comes to what they want or whom they want. It’s been my pleasure to tell one such vamp’s story in Kensington’s Soul, Book 1 of the Bound By Blood, The Legends series with The Wild Rose Press.

Zacke was an excellent vampire, hot, edgy, tormented and determined to protect the woman he loves while he tries to redeem his soul. In Dunbar’s Curse, Book 2 of the same series, Miles is a vamp also driven by emotions. He wants what he is sure he can’t have and when he gets it, he is frightened it will be snatched away.

Please enjoy a short blurb and excerpt. Zacke and Miles both will be here to field any questions from curious and intrigued readers.

A VAMPIRE WITH MORALS AND A DOCTOR WHO'S AFRAID OF MONSTERS.

Erotic dreams haunt Dr. Hope Morgan. The man who makes her burn with desire is only a figment of her imagination—or so she thinks until she meets him at a party. She fears she is losing her mind and flees the handsome stranger but finds she can’t seem to get him out of her heart.

Miles is over four hundred years old and a bit long in the fang department to fall in love. But when the child he rescues grows up into a beautiful and sensual woman, he can’t keep his heart or desire under control. When Hope’s life is in danger once again, he moves Heaven and Earth to protect her but wonders who will protect her from him.

Excerpt:

She stepped off the bottom step and almost tripped over an uneven patch of floor.

She aimed the beam of light at where the window should be. What on earth? A bookcase blocked out her expected light source. Miles was the only one who could have done that, but why would he?
The cold penetrated deeper, spurring Hope toward the furnace. Her foot caught on something soft but unyielding. She stumbled and ended up sitting on the something. Her hand recognized the contours of a mattress. A mattress that should have been stuffed in a corner, not lying out in the open.
Once again, she sent the light spiraling over the basement, but nothing else seemed out of place. She brought the beam back to shine on the mattress and a body.
Her heart beat triple time before she recognized the body resting on its side, a scant two feet from her hand. Miles! Why was he sleeping in the basement and not upstairs? Her hand reached out toward his arm. Should she wake him or let him sleep? Common sense won—he had to be freezing. He didn’t even have a sheet. This time her palm brushed his sleeve before she gently shook his shoulder.
A hand caught her wrist in a cruel grip.
She bit back a cry of pain.
A second later she was flat on her back—Miles’ face above hers. But not the face she loved. His eyes were so dark they were almost black. His beautiful lips were drawn back in a snarl. A snarl that revealed one-inch incisors. The hand that held her down sported claws.

Now sit back, enjoy, ask your questions, and have a good time!

Faith

BIO:

Faith started her journey to publication when she joined the Romance board at iVillage.com, where she has long since become a community leader. She has written book reviews for Bridges Magazine, MyShelf.com, and for the past six years, Romantic Times Book Reviews. She also pens a column for a local magazine. Her path veered into editing and marketing for a small press before she joined The Wild Rose Press staff. Her dream of having her own work published is a blessing and an honor. Faith resides in the south with her daughter Amanda, memories of her now angel husband Rick, and a special zoo crew of furry babies.

Please visit me at www.faithvsmith.com, www.faithvsmith.blogspot.com,
I’m also on Twitter! http://twitter.com/FaithVSmith
And visit my fan page on Face Book Access it through my blogspot.

As Promised, the October "Free Read" Contest Question...

2009-10-24T07:28:00.004-04:00

...and the question is...

What is the relationship of the caped ghoul in my Halloween short read, located on my website, between the main characters, Rachel and Paula?

For complete details on this contest and any other activities, please visit http://www.romawolftales.com/ and click on the "Contest" tab at the top of the home page.

The short of it is jot your question answer into an email and place Halloween Free Read Contest in the subject line. The shoot it over to gothscribegirl@aol.com. Good luck!

Reminder: Please jump below and read my post of yesterday. I've posted an important link to a petition against ebook and internet pirating.

Thank you for dropping by and have a wonderful weekend!

Some News! And a petition you don't want to miss. Help stop the Pirating of our work

2009-10-23T06:38:00.000-04:00

Two weeks ago I was solicited via email and asked if I would like to write a Halloween story for the magazine to be published in Yareah Magazine, which is a bilingual electronic and print magazine! I researched and sent a inquiry back to be sure they were legit and low and behold, they are. I have a short Samhain piece coming out November 1st in the magazine titled "One Blessed Samhain." If anyone is interested in taking a look, you can go to http://www.yareah.com/ and download or purchase a print copy.

Next I wanted to mention something that I am strongly opposed to which is the pirating of ebooks and other forms of digital works and did a couple of blogs on the subject, if you remember. Well, Michelle Flagg brought this letter and petition to my attention and I'd like to bring it to yours. Thank you, Mickey!

Please visit http://www.copyrightalliance.org/letter/index.php?&thankyou and drop your vote in. Someone mentioned that you may receive a call for dollar contribution after signing the petition. Let's hope the signatures are valid without contribution.
Hope you are all doing well.

Oh and don't forget. I will post the question on Saturday, October 24 regarding my posted Free Read Contest, winner to receive a Halloween Goodie Bag. If you haven't checked out the details nor read my quirky little Halloween story, please visit www.romawolftales.com for details.

Dayana~
__._,_

Author Spotlight: M Flagg, paranormal romance

2009-10-22T06:30:00.001-04:00

Please welcome Michelle Flagg a good friend and peer paranormal romance author. Her series is AWESOME! I've read Retribution! and look forward to the next book.

Thanks for having me here, Dayana. It’s always such a pleasure to visit with you.

Tell me about yourself. What makes you angry, happy, sad, snoopy dance?

I’m a left-handed Virgo who loves chocolate. That just about covers it! Been blessed with a wonderful family who brings happiness and joy to my life. I tend to snoopy dance a lot, and the only thing that truly ruffles my feathers are mean-spirited people. I don’t tolerate bullying, either in the classroom or out of it.

How many books have you written?

3 – Retribution! is my first release. Consequences is also contracted with TWRP, and Inheritance, Book 3, has not yet been queried. All are full-length novels.

What are some traditional methods of marketing you have used to gain visibility for you and your book(s)?

I’ve done pens, postcards – the usual. Also, I spread the word about my work on blogs, Facebook, and anywhere anyone will listen.

What are some unique methods?

Recently, I was interviewed on blog talk radio. Now that was a very strange feeling. Taking out ads, even short news releases to a local paper have worked really well. The latter led to a fantastic invitation for a book signing at a busy coffee house. I sold well over 30 copies of Retribution! I’ve been invited back there for a Halloween book signing, but this time, I’ll be joined by Noble Blood’s author, Linda J. Parisi. Two Black Roses in costume! I’m so looking forward to it J

Oh blog radio is strange. I had an interview with Paranormal Palace last year and was so nervous, but you know? The host was so warm and friendly we ended up talking like we were longtime friends. BTW I listened to your interview, Micky, and it was great:)

When do you write (daytime, nighttime, on your lunch hour, before the kids get up, after everyone is asleep? In large chunks of time or stolen snippets?)

My two children are in their 20’s, and I totally give kudos to authors with little ones around. I don’t believe I could have written one sane word while my two were small. I usually write on nights and weekends. Some Saturdays, I’m so involved in the characters that the day fades to black before I realize it. Being a teacher, snow days have me jumping for joy and raring to write. The ambiance of a blizzard just thrills me!

Now that is something I truly miss from my life in New Jersey. Snow days were always the best.

Do you write every day? Or when the muse strikes?

Nope – I’m strictly a ‘when the muse strikes’ kind of gal. I can edit most anytime, but the creative process of writing only happens when the muse makes an appearance.

Ditto, Micky. Me too!

Where do you write?

Ah, I love this question! There’s a small eating room at the back of my home. The table becomes a perfect desk, the view, an entire wall of window. My laptop faces open space full of greenery. There’s a really neat forest on my left. Deer, fox, groundhogs, bunnies, chipmunks, and various species of birds are often present. I love the feeling of solitude in the midst of Mother Nature when I write.

Oh that sounds wonderful. I am so jealous. I grew up venturing through forests and loving nature. I miss it. The flora and fauna is so different in the tropics.

Do you put pieces of yourself or your life in your stories?

Yes. I think most writers do. I also put pieces of my family’s lives in the characters as well.

Again, I tend to do the same thing. My first book a crime suspense has a lot of my father in it:)

What is your least favorite thing to do as an author?

Jeez, can’t I have more than one?? Making the query letter perfect, penning a thrilling synopsis, shameless self-promo… The uncomfortable tasks one must accomplish if we choose to entertain others with our creations. If it helps, writing the book is what I like best.

Tell us about your Hero. Do you have a favorite, if you’ve written multiple books?

Michael Malone is a tall, dark, and handsome vampire with moral conscience and tons of depth. Reclaiming his soul after 200 years of lusty kills changes him. Michael’s complex disposition makes him fun to write. His arrogance hides a very caring (but metaphorical) heart, and devotion to Alana, my heroine, never wavers.

As I've told you on numerous occasions, I love Michael and Alana. They are just amazing. And the strife they muddle through is so well written. All your characters are so very well fleshed out, I felt as if I knew each one of them. You guys really must read this book.

Are any of your characters modeled after people you know?

Bits and pieces of the good people in my life show up in each of my characters. Thorn, the empath who helps Michael, is a combination of three wonderful men that I have the pleasure of being related to. I love each one of them in a different way, and Thorn is a tribute to their persistence and importance to me.

What do you do for relaxation?

Very little. No lie… I’m wound pretty tight.

What TV shows do you watch? I never miss Bones, The Closer, or Mad Men. I’m a sucker for drama and complex characters.

Oohhh, I love Bones as everyone already knows.

What type of music do you favor?

Being a music teacher, I find different types of release in different genres. I’ll escape into my thoughts with Bach’s Cello Suites or anything Chopin. But I get equal satisfaction out of Santana, Janis Joplin, the Beatles, or Louis Armstrong.

Quite diverse taste, Mickey. I tend to do Alternative and Classical which totally on two different ends of the scale, LOL

Do you use music as a motivational source when writing?

Nope. Never. My head starts analyzing the piece and I slip into the musician and out of the writer. I prefer total silence when I write.

Fun question (possible blackmail material down the line, LOL) What is the most uncharacteristic thing you have ever done? Please, no censoring? I have no qualms about placing a content warning on my blog!

I gave up a tenured teaching position to study acting in London and traipse around Europe when I was 26. For five months, I lived without a plan, without a care in the world. Anyone who knows me will attest to that being the most uncharacteristic thing I have ever done!

It's been a pleasure having you here today, Micky. I look forward to reading Consequences and please do get Inheritance submitted, woman!

More about M. Flagg:

Mickey brings the joy of music to hundreds of students every week in an urban K-8 school. Named a Distinguished Music Educator at the 2009 Yale Music Symposium, she also accompanies a church choir on Sundays and writes paranormal romance. Retribution, her debut novel, was released in 2009. Book 2, Consequences, is also contracted with The Wild Rose Press. Living in northern NJ, she shares her home with her children, a rescued, bright-orange Main Coon who only bites her ankles, and a very sweet JRT who doesn’t know he’s a terrier. Her novels can be purchased at http://www.thewildrosepress.com/ as well as various sites on the web. You can contact Mickey at http://www.mflagg-author.com/

Author Spotlight: Sheri Lewis Wohl, Paranormal Author

2009-10-15T06:00:00.001-04:00

Please welcome my good friend, paranormal author, Sheri Lewis Wohl. Thank you so much for coming to spend the day with me today. I, better than anyone, know how very busy you are, Sheri. Tell us about yourself. What makes you angry, happy, sad, snoopy dance?

Hi Dayana. Well, I live in northeast Washington State with my husband, two really big dogs, and a little calico cat. I’ve lived here most of my life, which is why the majority of my books are set here. What makes me both angry and sad, is intolerance. I mean, seriously…why can’t we all just get along?? What makes me happy is time my family (including the four-legged variety) and I usually reserve snoopy dancing for things like book contracts, great reviews, and royalty checks! Oh yeah, and I definitely did the snoopy dance when my Masters Thesis on a vampire story was nominated for outstanding thesis of year at the university.

Wow, congratulations, Sheri! That's wonderful. I'd love to read your thesis sometime. That sounds very intriguing. And the contracts, great reviews, and royalties tend to make me happy as well:) Tell me do you write to make a living--you know for the money--or for the sheer love of writing?

For me, it’s both. I have always written because I just flat out like to write. At the same time, making money is the ultimate ideal. My goal is to not be just a writer, but a professional writer who puts money in the bank. Nothing wrong with shooting for the New York Times Bestseller list.

Oh I have to agree with you there, Sheri. I would love to sell to a NY house and be on the New York Best Seller's list. Wait...isn't that every writers' goal and dream.
What is your favorite holiday? And why?

Well, as a writer in the paranormal genre, it’s go to be Halloween. There’s something so intriguing about the concept of the veil lifting between the world of the seen and unseen. That, and for one night getting to dress and pretend to be whoever or whatever you want to be. Yes, indeed, definitely All Hallows Eve.

As you and everyone else who knows me is aware. Halloween is my ultimate time of the year. LOL So I definitely can understand where you are coming from here. Now I have to do a shameless plug here, *grin* The one author who celebrates this holiday the best, in my experience, is Sharon Donovan, bless her soul. I just spent all day Tuesday with her and Oliver at the Haunted Mansion and I will tell you, it was AWESOME. I am going to take some lessons from Sharon for next year. Watch out! I'm going to start planning now.

Do you write every day? Or when the muse strikes?

I write every day. I don’t wait on the muse because sometimes, old muse forgets to show up! When the muse does show up, I tend to write a little more and for a lot longer.

oh good for you for being able to be scheduled. That just work for me. I envy you and authors like you. I have to wait until the muse hits me in the head, otherwise, the page will remain blank.

Are you someone who can write on demand? Or do you have to stew and coax an idea before you sit down and write? Or maybe you write when the muse knocks you upside your head, like me?

I can pretty much write on demand. I think I learned the skill from a combination of work in the office, college, and grad school. Bosses and Professors aren’t really inclined to wait for a muse to appear, if you know what I mean. I’ve carried over the ability to write on demand into my creative side as well.

Where do you write?

Everywhere. I do have a home office though I find I do most of my writing on a laptop that I carry with me everywhere. The few times I didn’t bring it along, I was lost!

Where did you get the inspiration for (your current book)?

I got the latest idea when I was sitting in Sunday services at the Washington National Cathedral. I was in D.C. for the Romance Writers National Conference and had some time to kill before I was to fly home. I walked up to the Cathedral and was in time for the morning service. It was wonderful and as I sat there…voila…the plot for my next book hit me.

Interesting, a cathedral? Hmm...You got me curious:)

What is your least favorite thing to do as an author? Allow me to clarify: query, write a synopsis, write a blurb, market, you get the picture.

I HATE to write the synopsis. It’s not just a mild dislike either. We’re talking heartfelt detest. I’m never happy with them and no matter how much time I spend on them, I never feel good when I’m finished.

Seems to be the common hate amongst writers. Maybe I'll put a poll up and test this out, LOL Tell us about your Hero. Do you have a favorite, if you’ve written multiple books?

My favorite hero so far is Adam Bell, a shape shifting Spokane Indian from my dark paranormal trilogy at Loose Id. He’s one those guys who’s sexy, tough, insightful, and calm. And, when he says “I love you,” he means it. I recently had a reader ask me if I was going to write a fourth book in the series because she wanted to see more of Adam. Of course, I’m also very fond of Jason “Bigs” Bigelow, the hero in my latest paranormal romance. Bigs just has a way about him that makes you love him.

What type of music do you favor?

I’m pretty much a classic rock and roll girl. Anything from Janis Joplin to Aerosmith. Throw in a little blues now and again, and I’m happy.

Do you use music as a motivational source when writing?

No, not music. I have a tendency to put movies in when I’m writing and the kind of movie I put in usually tracks with the kind of book I’m writing. I don’t really watch it while I’m working but I listen. Sort of subliminal motivation.

You know, movies inspire me and I also utilize them in my research. I like to watch a movie like Van Helsing and describe the shifter change, or maybe Blood and Chocolate and describe the imagery of the hunt. It's sort of a writing lesson to me. To create what I am watching on the screen, so to speak.

Fun question (possible blackmail material down the line, LOL) What is the most uncharacteristic thing you have ever done? Please, no censoring? I have no qualms about placing a content warning on my blog!

It’s got to be the flaming breasts. We are big car people and every year attend numerous functions for car enthusiastic. This past summer we had a large gathering at our home. Later in the evening, one of our friends (a very artistic fellow) took his collection of Sharpie pens and drew flames of varying colors on the chests of willing women. Sort of temporary tattoos. I, being pretty conservative in that respect, kept saying no, no, no, every time he asked me. Finally I gave in and spent the rest of the evening with lovely red and black flames erupting out of my tank top! My husband was floored and that’s putting it mildly. I’m sorry to say (not really) there are no pictures of the flaming breasts for blackmail purposes.

Oh, Sheri! I am so sorry you didn't take pictures, LOL How about the skull collection? How is that fairing? My black rose centerpiece is as beautiful as the day I got it what 3-4 years ago? LOL I am now pining for a black rose wreath I saw at Target.

The skull collection is coming along nicely. Wild Bill Whiting, the Oregon artist who makes the ceramic skulls, does fantastic work and I pick up a new one each year at the Portland Swap Meet. Though the swap meet is a huge collector car event, Wild Bill always brings the skulls. I drag the hubby over to see him (right after I pick up my latte) and we get the skull purchase done before a single car part is looked at.

Newest book Blurb:

Adrian Meade is on the run from her rich, powerful, and vengeful ex-husband, so she creates a new identity as Anna Koch to keep herself safe. Tired of running, she has no sooner put down temporary roots in Spokane, Washington, than she finds herself in the midst of an unexpected romance with her landlord, Jason “Bigs” Bigelow, and also confronted with the century-old mystery of a missing boy. Full of dark secrets, she keeps Bigs at arm’s length until their fiery passion becomes too great to deny. Love, lies, and a ghost complicate Adrian’s life even more than it already is. As secrets begin to crack and mysteries begin to unravel, the line between the past and the present fades. Can Bigs keep her safe from an evil that transcends time or will he lose the one woman who has finally healed his heart?

Buy it Now: http://alturl.com/u354
Watch the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfMzxXsQYdQ
www.sherilewiswohl.com

More about Sheri Lewis Wohl

Bio:
A reader since I could pick up a book, my goal in grade school was to read every book in the library. I didn't quite make it through every book, but I came darn close, and thus my love of literature was born. I started writing in high school and have continued through today. I didn't follow my muse to college, at least not at first. Instead, I floundered around and managed to complete a degree with concentrations in Psychology, Communications and Women's Studies at Eastern Washington University. But, the pull of the written word wasn't done with me yet, and I went back to school to complete a Masters in Humanities through California State University. With a thesis on Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu's vampire tale "Carmilla", it was a gothic writer's dream come true.
Today, I'm still writing and reading a ton of books. With the advent of electronic publishing I can carry any number of books in my PDA. I'm never without a touch of fiction. I live in Eastern Washington with my husband Steve, a German Shepherd named Falco, a St. Bernard named Shaggy, and a rescued calico cat named Halle.
I'm a member of Romance Writers of America, EPIC, the Transylvanian Society of Dracula, and The International Order of Horror Professionals.

2009-10-12T22:00:00.003-04:00

I'm very excited to shout out that I will be hanging out at Sharon Donovan's Haunted Mansion tomorrow. Please drop by and join us. Oliver is such a hottie and the atmosphere is phenomenal! Don't miss any of the tricks or treats Sharon has in mind.

Also, please don't miss my Free Read contest. I will be asking a question toward the end of the month for a fabulous Halloween gift bag. For details on this contest and all upcoming events, please hop over to my website and click on the contest link.

Hope to see you all tomorrow.

D~

2009-10-10T09:36:00.004-04:00

Good Morning! Just a quick note to let you all know and invite you over to Faith Smith's blog today. Faith and I are gabbing over champagne and chocolates and we may even have some special hunky guests dropping by. Isn't that right, Faith?

Have a wonderful weekend!

D~

Author Spotlight: Catherine Bybee, Paranormal Romance

2009-10-08T06:30:00.004-04:00

Hello everyone. Please welcome Catherine Bybee, my good friend, paranormal romance author and promo guru.

Whoo hoo, I’m playing at Dayana's! What fun! This is so awesome considering last year at this time I was pining for that coveted ‘Got Wolf?’ T-Shirt that Callie was giving away last year on your blog! I’ve come a long way, baby.

LOL Yes, you have! Great having you here, Catherine. And if I remember correctly you did win that T-shirt.

Thanks for having me, Dayana.

You're very welcome. We did have fun last year, didn't we?

Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?

Soul Mate available at the Red Rose Publishing, was inspired by a weekend in Sequoia last summer. Once the family nestled into the RV for the night, I sat outside watching the full moon poke through the hills and thought it would be a great place for my next werewolf story. And oh, Dayana… I found a whole new excerpt just for your blog. Wanna see it?

Oh sure, I'd love to see it:)

Okay, here ya go.

Excerpt:

“Damn it, Pierce. Where the hell are you?”

“How do you know my name?”

She sounded angry and close.

“I looked you up.”

“Why?”

Her voice shifted directions.

Nick swirled in a circle. “I told you I knew you from somewhere.”

“We've never met, Murdock.”

“I know, but the department has photos of you.”

Behind him a twig snapped. He spun around in alarm.
Ice blue eyes spit cold fire from beneath long pale lashes. Kari was literally a foot away, and he hadn’t heard her.

“Why?”

“Your parents.”

A flash of pain sparked and went away almost as quickly.

“The FBI was interested in their murders?” She took a step backwards.

“The case is studied due to the weapon of choice used by their killers.”

Kari’s eyes cast to the ground. “Wolves,” the word came out on a sigh.

“The file said dogs.”

“I was there; they were wolves. The police have a hard time listening to details.”

Nick watched as she straightened her shoulders and stared him in the eye.

“Any more questions, Agent Murdock?”

“Yeah, one.”

Kari cocked her head to the side and said, “Shoot.”

“How did you know the missing girl came to us?” Nick didn’t blink, didn’t breathe while he waited for her response. He watched for subtle changes in her stance and eye contact that would give away her feelings. A slightly twitching left eye gave him what he needed.

Ooooh, that certainly got my curiosity stirred up. And I have to tell you that cover is HOT! I have Soul Mate on my laptop queued for reading. Unfortunately I've not had a moment to myself since I bought it on release day! I am definitely closing myself off this week and delving into this book, Catherine, which brings me to my next question, why do you write?.

Because I have to or the voices in my head would drive me crazy! LOL… Which is in part true. I have so many ideas and stories floating in my head that if I didn’t start putting them on paper, I’d have gone a little nutty.

Really... *grin*
How do you come up with your title and main characters’ names?

Names are hard for me. I try to pick names that are easy to identify with. What I mean by that is if you have a hero named Malcom or Francis, it might be difficult to read the book without laughing. I also work with whatever time period I’m writing about or nationality.

Interesting theory and you're right, Malcom or Francis for a hero just doesn't work for me either. I have a hard time picking character names myself and agree about the story backdrop. You're not going to call a character Pedro if your story is based in Romania, LOL

Where the title to my stories aren’t difficult at all. So far, all my contracted books have titles that truly ‘fit’ the story.

Hmmm...
Titles are a challenge for me. I never like the titles and am always alert for a better fitting one as I work through the story.

When do you write (daytime, nighttime, on your lunch hour, before the kids get up, after everyone is asleep? In large chunks of time or stolen snippets?

I write whenever I can grasp an hour or two without an interruption. Three years ago this month, I injured myself at work and found myself at home in front of the computer all the time. Not having the ability to do my day job because of my injury has afforded me time to write whenever my family isn’t in need of me. I guess you could say I made lemonade out of a bowl of lemons.

Oh, I am sorry about the injury but a lot of good has come of it. I guess there really is a silver lining in every black cloud, huh.

What is your least favorite thing to do as an author? Allow me to clarify: query, write a synopsis, write a blurb, market, you get the picture.

Query’s are easy for me, as are the blurbs and marketing…

Umm... you state the obvious here, Missy. Stop bragging, LOL I, of all people, know how wonderful you are at marketing:)

I don’t know a writer who likes writing a synopsis, and I’m in that boat. Funny, I can write a 400 page 100K book but a 5 page synopsis has me breaking out in hives. But the thing that makes me crazy as a writer is waiting. Waiting to hear from a publisher, waiting for edits, waiting for release day, waiting for reviews.

Oh I can relate to that. I have to agree but I do try to move on to other projects to keep my mind off the incessant waiting.

How many books have you written?

Hmm, lets see? There are two full-length books in my hard drive that may never see the light of day because of the edits needed to make them marketable. Two full length time travel’s – Binding Vows and Silent Vows. Redeeming Vows is 1/3 finished.
Soul Mate is one of three werewolf stories. I have three erotic’s written, Kilt Worthy, Kilt-a-licious and Batteries Not Included. One ghost story and my newest WIP is a full-length paranormal I’m not quite ready to yak about:) So what is that, 11?

Wow! not too shabby, Catherine. BTW I read Kilt Worthy and absolutely loved it.

Do you have an upcoming release?

Well, notice I didn’t talk about my other two werewolf stories above? While my first two werewolf stories didn’t win in the Got Wolf? Contest, they did both receive contracts. Before the Moon Rises is waiting final galley, and I should be able to announce a release date soon. When I completed BTMR, another story was kickin’ around in my head for the brother of my hero in BTMR. So Richard’s story, Only for You is twice the page length and that will be coming on the heels of Before the Moon Rises.

But the big news for me this year is my full-length time travel, Binding Vows, the first in my trilogy will be available in paperback and e-book December 4th 2009 from The Wild Rose Press. This is the book of my heart. The first book I attempted to publish. I can’t wait to hear what the romantic world thinks of Duncan and Tara!

Thanks again for having me here today, Dayana.

Oh, Catherine! Thank you for being here. It has been great gabbing with you. I hope to have you back again soon:)

Treats for Tricks - Contest and Drawing

2009-10-04T20:02:00.003-04:00

Evening all!

I've been very busy as you all know. This is my time of year. I've been decorating the homefront and today I've updated my website and am very excited with the Halloween setting I've created. I've also finished and distributed notification of my October newsletter. Whoa! Yes, my bum is quite sore at the moment from sitting in front of this laptop all day.

Anyway, I have a special treat offer this month. I have posted a Halloween "Free Read" in two places today, and I am offering a special Halloween gift bag to a one lucky winner at the end of the month. If you've ever won one of my gift bags or baskets you will definitely want to see this through:) How do you win, you may be wondering?

Well...
all you have to do is visit my website or Dayana's Happenings to download a copy of my newsletter and read my Halloween free read. On October 24th I will post a question that you will only be able to answer if you've read the story. You will have one week to post your answers. I will have a drawing on Halloween for the winner and announce the winner on November 1st. Don't miss your chance. I will post a reminder every couple of days after the question is posted.

Any questions you can always reach me by commenting here or emailing me: gothscribegirl@aol.com .

Author Spotlight: Isabel Roman, Paranormal Romance

2009-10-01T06:30:00.004-04:00

Please welcome Isabel Roman to the Author Spotlight today.
Hello, Isabel. Thank you for joining me today.
Thanks for having me today, Dayana!
How do you decide on your books’ topic?

I decided on my four book paranormal series by looking at what has been done and not doing that. Druids have mostly been done in medieval or ancient stories, I haven’t heard of one taking place in Victorian England and America. ‘Course my four books series was originally a three book series until I felt horrible for poor Isadore and had to give her a story of her own. *G*

Oh, I hear that. Sometimes, I find that secondary characters jump out and beg for their own stories. I have two sequels in the works now because some characters just need to have their own day in the limelight.

HAHA, see how that happens? With other books, I think about what I’m interested in and build a story from there. Sometimes it’s a story in a place I’ve always wanted to write in. Sometimes it’s based on what fits in that time period.

Oh yes, that makes sense, Isabel. I try to write about what I know and what I love. I also like to experiment with different settings and create worlds with descriptive imagery.

What works best to keep you focused and on track?
Deadlines. It’s the one surefire way to keep me focused. There’s nothing like a looming deadline, and by that I mean 2-3 weeks away, to keep me focused and on track.

Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

Both.
What? I’m not that shallow. *G* I’d love to be able to support myself in the manner my day job keeps me supported through writing, but for now, I write to breathe. And for that future of supporting myself.

I definitely agree with you. I am writing for my future as well. I’d like to eventually retire and write. A dream at the moment but dreams are made to come true, aren’t they?

Yup! I’m right there with you. :)

When was the first moment you felt comfortable saying, “I am a writer?”

Is that like the line from the first Mummy movie when Evie says “I…am a librarian.” Then passes out? LOL, sorry, that’s what it sounded like in my head when I read the question. I love that movie and that line always cracks me up. As to the “I…am a writer” bit, I’d say after I got my first review. It had nothing to do with validation on MY part more like on others. I now had a great review in hand, someone I didn’t know who read my first book and LOVED it! I mean what more is there? Sure, I loved it, but a complete and utter stranger? It’s what I wanted and now had. It was after that, that I felt more comfortable in telling people, though I don’t often introduce myself as such. Usually it’s my day-job title that I use, but more people know I’m a writer now than even 6 months ago.

Very well put, Isabel. I’d never thought of it quite that way but reviews do sort of validate your success when they are positive. On the same token, what if that first review was a bad one? Would you have not written again? Or would you have said, “Ahh… It’s just one person’s opinion.”

Well, I don’t think I would’ve brought out the sack and ashes, but it may have been close. Then again, despite that, I think I would’ve kept on anyway. Write to breathe and all.

Where do you write?

At home. Pathetic but true. I have a home office with a great desk, a spiffy new computer, and a great set up that I love. And a soon-to-be bathroom, with luck in three weeks. Though I have written well on trips, I’m most comfortable and get the most done at home.

Why would that be pathetic? LOL Most of us write at home in a makeshift office atmosphere or bedroom corner. But I do take my laptop when I travel because I never know when I might want to work. Also, I am never without a pad of paper. I write longhand as well at times.

I take my laptop, too, cause you just never know when that idea that’s been percolating will become full blown. I really look forward to those moments!

How do you come up with your title and main characters’ names?

With tedious effort. I hate titling my books, and naming my characters is always a chore.

Ho Boy! Do I have to agree with you. I hate this process as well.

But I do take the time to carefully name them because I want names I like for the type of character I’m building, be they the main hero and heroine, secondary characters, or throwaway walk-through ones. They also have to reflect the country or their family’s country of origin.

Again, great advice. That is why I think it is so ‘tedious’ because a lot of thought go into both titles and naming the characters. You want both to stand out and say something about the story. Make lasting impressions, etc.

What is your least favorite thing to do as an author? Allow me to clarify: query, write a synopsis, write a blurb, market, you get the picture:)

Synopsis. I know so very many people who say the same thing but here’s my example and I will willingly bow to anyone with a worse horror story.
The first time I wrote a synopsis to send out with a completed story it took me 12 hours on a Sunday. With no breaks. 12 hours in my chair, pacing around, banging my head on random walls. 12 freakin’ hours!!
It was the single most excruciating thing I’d ever done. I still have nightmares about that Sunday.

Oh my! Not my favorite thing either. So much is riding on a synopsis. You are trying to sell your book, your writing, and your soul here. So much pressure. It’s amazing how much work goes into the fun of sitting down and crafting a story. The only fun in the entire process, honestly, is writing the story, isn’t it? An author learns pretty quickly the real work begins when the story is done:)

YES! I agree, writing the story can be loads of fun.

How long did it take you to get your first project sold? And was the project your first actual completed manuscript?

Yes, it was my first actual completed manuscript though I had an incomplete one before I may never look at again. This one (Murder & Magick) took about 8 months to sell to Ravenous Romance. With revision, with cutting, with changes to the plot. (I’ve since learn to plot each chapter and character arc, so they take me a lot less time to write.)

Are any of your characters modeled after people you know?

No, but I have had people ask that they (their names at least) be put into a book. One even wanted a glorious death in a gunfight. I’ve used aspects of TV characters, movie characters, things I like about a person or a movement of body someone does. But 99% of my characters are fictional.

What TV shows do you watch?

What, you haven’t heard about my NCIS addiction? LOL, I’m very serious about it. If it’s a Tuesday night, don’t bother. I’m watching NCIS. It’s one of maybe um…no actually it’s the only show I’ll make it a point to watch every week and whenever it’s on. Other than that, mainly sci-fi stuff.

Oh, I’ve got a couple of those and actually it is my only time I really sit and relax other than my nightly exercise program of walking or bike riding, LOL. I watch Dark Blue and Bones with a ‘don’t bother me’ aura radiating from me.

Thank you so much for dropping by today, Isabel. Now before you run, I do know that you have a wonderful story titled, Shadow State, coming out this month in the Black Rose Got Wolf Anthologies, which release this month at The Wild Rose Press. Why not tell us a bit about it?

Shadow State is a favorite. I don’t know if it’s the storyline, the characters, the setting, or all three, but I really do love this story. Set in 1934 Germany, just after Hitler’s governmental coup, Night of the Long Knives or Nacht der langen Messer, the Arminius Clan realizes they’re no longer safe in Germany. This is a new war, a new way of looking at enemies, and they know they’re a prime target. Then one of their own is taken by the Nazi’s and experimented upon.

It was a real eye-opener researching medical knowledge in the 1930s. For decades, Germany was the place to study science and medicine, so my heroine, Elsa, is a research doctor at a prestigious Berlin hospital. I learned a lot about my wolves and Nazi experimentation during this time, and used it. I also used the Nazi fascination with the occult, since that’s well documented and easy to add in.

Excerpt: (I debated a humorous part or a sexy part, and of course came down on the side of sexy.)

“Have you decided this is our moment?” she asked.
He pulled away just enough to see the eyebrow raised in amused question. But he could also see how her blue eyes darkened, could feel her breath coming in gasps. Could smell the change in her scent.
Trailing his lips along the back of her neck, he breathed her in. Another growl escaped him, louder and stronger, establishing his dominance over her. When Elsa growled back, his cock hardened further.
Yes, this was his mate.
Nipping her shoulder, Christoph was only slightly surprised when she entwined her fingers with his and moved them slowly up her body. Cupping her breasts through the thin silk of her blouse, he felt the harden peaks push through her clothing. Her entire body shuddered when he pinched her nipples.
“Christoph,” she murmured.
Turning her, he slammed her against the bookcases. Mouth on hers in an instant, he took hold of her hands again, pinning them above her head. She tasted better than he imagined, and when she kissed him back, all thought fled.
He had to have her.
A loud crash jerked what little attention was not on Elsa back to their surroundings. Christoph spun to scan the library, Elsa secured behind him. He saw no one. The faint scent of Peter, however, lingered in the air.
He was going to kill his friend.

Books and Purchase links:

Murder & Magick: http://www.ravenousromance.com/fantastica/the-dark-desires-of-the-druids-1-murder-and-magick.php?flypage=0

Sex & Subterfuge: http://www.ravenousromance.com/fantastica/the-dark-desires-of-the-druids-2-sex-and-subterfuge.php

Desert & Destiny: http://www.ravenousromance.com/fantastica/the-dark-desires-of-the-druids-iii-desert-and-destiny.php

Temptations & Treachery: http://www.ravenousromance.com/fantastica/the-dark-desires-of-the-druids-iv-temptations-and-treachery.php

And my bio: A mostly historic, oftentimes paranormal, definitely racy romance writer with a love of movies. And NCIS.

My website: http://www.isabelroman.com/My blog: http://authorisabelroman.blogspot.com/

Road Trip ~ The Black Rose Blog Tomorrow:)

2009-09-29T22:34:00.004-04:00

I am introducing myself on TWRP's new Black Rose Blog tomorrow. Please drop on by and check it out. I'd love to have you meet my peer line authors as well.

Looking forward to Paranormal month with The Wild Rose Press. Last year was a blast so this year should be all the better.

D~

Happy Autumn! Updates and an important follow up on the "A Word About Reviews" Post.

2009-09-22T11:41:00.009-04:00

Yeah! My favorite season and holiday is coming at me fast. Got to get busy with my decor! I love this time of year. A northerner at heart, fall is such an awesome time of year. Still warm with Indian Summer yet so very vibrant. Living in Southern Florida, I truly miss it but this is the time of year that is most comfortable in the south. We get cold fronts that give us the most delectable weather. Breezy and much cooler temps from October through just about May. Ahh...Wintering in Florida is heaven.

I want to mention that this week's Author Spotlight didn't work out. Kelley Heckart's new release has been slightly delayed so her spot will move to November 12th. Be sure to mark you calendars of the change. The first and second week of October are open. Any paranormal authors interested in jumping in to be spotlighted? You don't have to have a new release to be interviewed so don't hesitate to contact me ASAP ( gothscribegirl@aol.com ) if you are interested in some free promo.

I wanted to take a moment and thank everyone who jumped into the review conversation below. If you have not read this post, please do. It's something that touches all of us as writers and reviewers alike. I've even had two reviewers step up to the plate and talk to us about thier perspective.

An update: The author that I talked about who was given a "0" rating on her book has had yet another review by the same reviewer none-the-less at a different review site! This time she was awarded a 1.5! How is this fair practice?

Reviewers out there, a question. Do you review the same books on different sites? I've never come across this practice before. Please pipe in and let us know what's up with this?

Dayana~

A Word About Reviews...

2009-09-19T17:54:00.007-04:00

Sorry, I just couldn't resist:) I've been pulling out the autumn and Halloween stuff for the last couple of weeks so...

I've got what I think is a very important, possibly debatable subject, I'd like to discuss today. It's happened to me on two occasions and it actually happened to a good friend quite recently.

The subject is book reviews.

This is a process we must go through and a nailbiting, edge-of-the-seat wait. We never know when that first review will pop up, and we sure as hell don't know how our heart's work will be accepted. So we wait chewing our nails with bellies churning.

Finally, that first review comes out and you've either gotten notification from the review site, which is how I learned of most of my reviews or we finally find a crumb of info after googling our name day after day. Then we sit rigid afraid to actually click the review to see what it says.

Ohmigod! It's wonderful when you click, finally open your eyes, and read it and find it's a positive review. My first one was a 4 from Manic Readers for Curse of the Marhime. I about fell off my seat. My second review came in from LASR and was a 4.5 and Bitten by Books gave it a 4.5 as well. More came in within the same parameters. So it's all good, right? Technically, yes. But...

I'm sure every or at least most authors out there have experienced the nasty hateful reviewer that seems to blatantly and with malice to trash your book and your talent all at once. Fortunately, mine was not the first review I set my eyes on but it hurt just the same. I've had two reviewers write less than complimentary reviews about two different books, that I know of. I won't reveal the review sites, and I will acknowledge that I understand a review is just an opinion. So I am not putting this blog out to antagonize reviewers' opinions. What I do want to do is give authors who have received less than stellar reviews or feel they have been trashed a different point of view in regards to how they react to the bad review.

Two of my peers recently have written to me about some bad reveiws they received and when I read the reveiws I had to admit they could have been handled a bit differently. For one of the authors, it was her first review! I felt terrible for her, but told her that's just one person's opinion. Though I am sure it didn't make her feel any better. In fact, I know it didn't.

Before any reviewers out there that may be reading this blog react, I myself am a freelance reviewer. So I do have a right to voice my opinion on the way a reviewer approaches a review. But I would certainly love to hear your thoughts on the subject.

Again, I will reiterate that I understand that everyone has an opinion and not everyone likes the same things. And to be perfectly honest, I never pay much attention to movie reviews or book reviews because if I did I'd probably never go to the movies or read the book, LOL how do I know if their tastes run along my tastes? Very important point here:)

The two reveiwers that gave me low numbers and had a lot of negative things to say about my books obviously did not like the type of books I wrote(and btw one of them admitted she didn't like the type of romance portrayed). So I ask, why would you read it in the first place? One of the reviewers even got the title of the book completely wrong with the cover art hovering right beside her review! That doesn't give her much creedence at least in my humble opinion.

Now, I'd like to discuss how I go forward with a review job.

If I get into a book that I truly don't like or the editing is really horrific, I stop reading it. I contact the liaison at the site and ask for it to be reassigned, which fortunately, is an option with the review site I work with. Some don't allow it and you must muddle through the review and do the best you can to be honest but not insult or hurt the author. Not an easy task. Why? Because I never want to discourage an author from persuing the craft and destroying any confidence said author has built within his or herself. It is a big step when a writer decides to submit a book. That writer is putting her/himself out there in a big, personal, naked sort of way. If you are not a writer you would never understand.

I will never give a book below a 3.5 because I just don't think it fair to the author. My opinion, my way of doing things. Obviously not everyone's cup of tea.

One of my peers was actually given a 0! How can you possibly give a book a 0? There is always something good to say about something. That is just moronic. The person who did that should not be reviewing books.

I'd like to hear what your take is on this subject. Many authors also review books so if you do, please pipe in. I'd like to know why it is necessary to blatantly ruin an author's work. I can't believe a publishing company would put out a book that didn't have something worth publishing between its bindings. Is it just me?

Dayana~

Author Spotlight: Helen Hardt, Erotic Romance

2009-09-17T06:00:00.002-04:00

Hi, Helen! Welcome. It's great to have you here. Can't wait to get down to the nitty gritty with you.

Thank you for having me, Dayana! It's always fun to visit you. Don't worry, I'll keep it PG ;). Though I would like to give away a pdf of my most recent erotic release, Montego Lay, to one of your commenters today.

Tell me about yourself. What makes you angry, happy, sad, snoopy dance?

What makes me happy is easy – my husband and my two handsome teenage sons. They mean the world to me. What makes me sad? When my boys are sick, when people I care about are suffering. Angry? People who think the rules don’t apply to them. That drives me crazy! Snoopy dance? A new contract, a great review, watching my younger son win a football game, watching my older son win a music competition.

What works best to keep you focused and on track?

Honestly, a deadline. Better yet, a deadline that others know about. I’ve had great success with National Novel Writing Month, where you have 30 days to write a 50K novel. I don’t want to be the dweeb who can’t make the deadline, LOL. Back in December, I had three weeks to write a 25K novella for The Wild Rose Press’s Lawmen and Outlaws anthology. The Outlaw’s Angel turned out to be one of my best stories, according to my CPs.

hmm...looks like I'm the dweeb. I honestly cannot write under pressure. It just doesn't work for me. I seize up and can't think of anything. LOL Ah well... I truly admire people who can just sit down and write like that. I write when the muse strikes me. Seems you work best under pressure *grin* Do you write to make money or for the love of writing?

I hope to make some decent money at some point. I think all writers want that. But if we were doing this solely for the money, most of us would have given up by now.

LOL can I relate to that! Definitely not something to take on if you expect to pay the mortgage, at least as a newbie in the world of publication. When was the first moment you felt comfortable saying, “I am a writer?”

June 2008, when I got my first contract from the lovely Diana Carlile, Senior Editor for the Scarlet Rose line at The Wild Rose Press. She gave me some of the nicest praise I’ve ever received for my writing. She’ll always hold a special place in my heart for making me feel like a real writer:)

Oh, I have to agree with you here about Diana. She is a wonderful editor. She helped me to make Eternal Obsession a much better story. Where do you hide yourself away to write?

I am lucky that I have a home office. From time to time I’ve been known to work in other places with my laptop, but most of my writing is done in my office.

Most authors are avid readers as well. When do you have time to read? Where?

I read in the evenings, usually while lying in bed. I also always have a book in the car with me in case I’m stuck waiting around somewhere. That way, I always have something to do. If I ever have a spare moment, I’m reading:)

Okay, so we writers do love to sit down and read for enjoyment and relaxation but as an author what would you say is your least favorite thing to do? Allow me to clarify: query, write a synopsis, write a blurb, market, you get the picture:)

Good question. My least favorite thing about writing is submitting. People who don’t write have no idea how difficult it is to put yourself out there, and I’m the thinnest skinned wuss you’ll ever meet, LOL.

Oh, I will beg to differ with you there, *grin* I am really a nervous Nellie when I submit a work. I have truly not gained in the confidence arena even with several published projects "out there." Quite frankly, I am more nervous and worrisome each time I submit. How long did you write seriously before your first book was published?

I started writing seriously in October of 2006, when I had a problematic mammogram. After additional testing, the mammogram turned out fine, but it was a wake-up call for me. You never know what tomorrow will bring. If I wanted to write, I’d better start. So I did. My first book was published in August 2008, so that’s a little under two years.

Wow! That's pretty impressive. My first novel was pubbed I believe four years after completion, but I have to admit some of that was me being discouraged and shelving it a couple of times then beginning the entire process of submitting again. How long did it take you to get your first project sold?

I started submitting in June 2007, and sold my first story in June 2008, so exactly one year.

How many manuscripts had you written by the time you had your first publication?

Quite a few. Six novels, three shorts, one novella, I think.

Why do you write?

That's the million dollar question, isn't it? Because I don't feel complete if I don't. This drive to write has been a part of my psyche for so long that I'm not sure I can explain it any better than that. Many times I've told myself, "gee, wouldn't life be easier if I didn't have this need to write?" Yes, it definitely would be. Writing is not easy. Not only that, it's fraught with rejection and subjectivity. So why do we do this again? LOL

Wow! did you hit the nail on the head with that one, Helen. I know I could have wallpapered my office with rejection letters with my first novel. Then after you finally do break through and get sold, you get trashed by reviews. LOL A writer really does drop their heart out for all to trample, but boy isn't it wonderful when you get those stellar reviews or letters from readers that 'just love your books.' Do you have an upcoming release?

Montego Lay, an erotic short, released last Friday (September 11) at The Wild Rose Press Wilder Roses.

Here's the blurb:

Vacationing at a Montego Bay nude resort, Lisa Brooks finds herself volunteering in a bondage demonstration on the beach. She’d like to continue the instructions with the Jamaican native, but the gorgeous resort employee has other duties to perform. Though disappointed, Lisa accompanies a friend to an erotic casino night where the chips are free and redeemable for sex. A night for a mysterious encounter? If only she could buy the island hottie she really wants.

I have two upcoming releases. The first is in your favorite genre, Dayana, dark paranormal. Blood Wolf was one of the winners of The Wild Rose Press’s Got Wolf? Contest and will release on October 9 in a two author anthology. This is one of my favorite stories and favorites heroes, so I’m very excited! My next release is a very hot western ménage called Slow and Wet, and is my first release with Ellora’s Cave. It’s coming on November 24.

Here’s the blurb for Blood Wolf:

When mysterious Damian MacGowan saves Suzanne Wood from a gang of thugs in a small Scotland town, she's beyond grateful. But his possessive need to be near her troubles her. Damian doesn’t understand why he’s drawn to Suzanne. He knows only that he must have her, or he will die. As the two get to know each other, love blossoms. But Damian has a secret, and an enemy, that may keep him from Suzanne forever.

Definitely sounds like a must have. Tell us about your Hero. Do you have a favorite, if you’ve written multiple books?

My heroes are all very different, and I love them all:) If I had to choose favorites, I’d go with Bobby Morgan in The Outlaw’s Angel and Damian MacGowan in the upcoming Blood Wolf. Both are fiercely passionate and capable of great love, yet they’re a little tormented. Very sexy!

Thank you again for having me today, Dayana! Readers, remember to leave a comment and you may win a pdf of Montego Lay.

Short bio:

Helen Hardt is an attorney and stay-at-home mom turned award-winning romance author. She met her real-life hero in law school, and they live in Colorado with their two teenage sons. Helen writes contemporary, historical, paranormal, and erotic romance. She is currently contracted with The Wild Rose Press and Ellora’s Cave. Her non-writing interests include Harley rides with her husband, attending her sons’ sports and music performances, traveling, and Taekwondo (she’s a blackbelt.) Visit Helen at http://www.helenhardt.com/ and http://www.helensheroes.blogspot.com/.