Monday, May 31, 2010
Happy Memorial Day
To our warriors who protect us by day and night, those still standing, and those who have fallen. We honor past, present, and future warriors. God Bless you all on this day and every other. Thank you for all that you do.
Friday, May 28, 2010
~* Author Spotlight on Imari Jade *~
CK: Happy Friday everyone. Today, we have my fellow Sugar and Spice Press author, Imari Jade. Please give her a warm welcome!
CK: LOL, My steno tablets and pens are my best friends and are always by my side. What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
CK: Imari, thank you so much for sharing. It was awesome having you here today! I’m glad I had the opportunity to get to know you better.
Imari, when did you launch your writing career?
Imari: Back in the late eighties.
CK: Where did you submit your first story?
Imari: I submitted my first story right about that time and I did fairly well with short-stores and articles but it wasn’t until 2006 when I sold my first novel to Star Dust Press.
CK: How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
Imari: Most of my writing takes place while I’m on break or lunch at work or during the wee hours of the morning when everyone else is asleep. I don’t go too far without my trusty steno tablets and pens.
Imari: The pros are of being a published author is the feeling of accomplishment whenever a book goes to print, the meeting of new fans from all around the country, and the fifteen minutes of fame. The cons are the constant promotion, the rejections and the strange looks I get when I tell people that I am a published author, especially when they learn that most of my writing deals with romance or erotica.
CK: Yes, I’ve received a few strange looks myself when I tell folks I write romance and erotica. Who knows, they probably want to write it too. : )
Please, tell us about your most recent release, Bayou Babe. I’ve had my eye on that for a while but have not had the opportunity to read it. I plan to do so this weekend since I have a few extra days off due to the holiday weekend.
Imari: I got the idea for Bayou Babe while I was doing some research on another book (yet to be published) dealing with voodoo, vampires and supernatural creatures in New Orleans. Halle’s character just popped into my head. She’s one of those women who is a product of her environment and her surroundings and no matter what she does it always ends badly. Halle was raised by her grandmother, a voodoo priestess from Haiti who taught her everything she knew. Just the word voodoo puts fear in people’s heart and they just let their imagination run wild. Add a small backwoods town, a gorgeous man from New York who’s intrigued by far-out news and secrets and you have Bayou Babe.
CK: That sounds like a wonderful read and I’m hooked. Before I leave out of here, I’m buying it and will read later on the Blackberry.
I’m curious to know, what is the high point in an author’s career? Are you content (for now) where you are as an author?
Imari: I think the high point in an author’s career is when they have accomplished the goals they have set for themselves. I’m content at the moment because a lot of publishers have put their backing behind me and I know they’re not doing it because of who I am. I get reject letters just like everyone else from time to time. I’m still looking for that Harlequin contract. That was my original goal twenty years ago. I often joke about you know you’ve made it when your name gets listed in the LA Times and the NY Times obituaries. But for now I’ll settle for the New York’s best sellers list.
CK: Wow, Harlequin. Imari, good luck to you. I know everything will work out for you in that aspect, just keep hanging in there. The moment will arrive when you least expect it to.
What are the greatest rewards of being a multi-published author with so many years of the craft under her belt?
Imari: Fans are beginning to recognize my name, I think editors and publishers take the time to read my submissions now without sending them automatically to the slush pile because I have proven that I can write and I do have credits and by-lines.
CK: What are your hobbies?
Imari: When I’m not writing I’m watching anime and movies.
CK: How do you unwind?
Imari: I lock my bedroom door and settle down with a good book or watch a movie.
Imari: Strictly from my imagination. Real people are too complicated.
CK: LOL. You have been writing for many years Imari. What advice would you give aspiring authors?
Imari: The best advice I can give is don’t give up and don’t do it just for the money because very few of us get rich with what we do. Lastly brush on your grammar and spelling. You’ll save yourself hours of editing if you do.
CK: How true. If your writing for the money, it will show in your work. Writing is an accomplishment that warms the heart and soul, especially when readers email you saying how much they enjoyed the book!
Where can you be found on the internet?
Imari: http://www.imarijade.com/
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
~ Spotlight on Author R.G. Porter ~
CK: Hello folks. Please welcome another fellow Eirelander author, R.G. Porter! R.G., when did you launch your writing career?
RG: I have always loved to write but didn't really think to try and write a full fledged novel till 2005. That adventure resulted in my first book released Shadow of the Wolf.
CK: Where do you come up with some of those fantastic creatures you create?
RG: Anything and everything can help to create those. I love myths and lore from all over. Celtic is what I'm drawn to most but Norse and Egyptian are also large influences in my creative process.
CK: I love Norse and Egyptian too. Where did you submit your first story?
RG: Shadow of the Wolf (Darkness Unleashed Book 1) was first released through Wild Rose Press but has since been revamped and re-released through Tease Publishing.
CK: That sounds like an interesting read R.G. Please tell us how you fit writing into your busy schedule?
RG: That's extremely tricky. Working full-time and raising a family makes my schedule very hectic. Lately I've made sure to make time at least every other night to write. So long as I can plug my ears into my headphones I can concentrate.
CK: Many of us can relate with you on working full-time. What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
RG: Pro would be knowing that the adventures I write are being enjoyed by others. It's the best thing in the world when you know that for just a small bit of time someone else is enjoying the worlds I create. Its amazing. Con would be that I always want to get more done and make the next one better than the last. It's a desire to produce the highest quality work while maintaining ones unique view and voice. Not always easy.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
RG: Currently I've begun an entire new series that I am beyond excited about. The series is called Veil Rift and the first book is titled Desert Ice. It's unlike anything I've written in the past and has such possibilities. I'd come up with the idea mid last year and started to work out the specifics of it. What I can tell you is that it involves the human realm and one that resides just past a veil within our world. Those from beyond the Veil are upset with the humans because we are destroying our world which is bleeding over into theirs. A few cross over and have plans to make our kind extinct by unleashing catastrophic natural disasters.
First draft is nearly halfway done and I can say so far I adore this series so far. Unfortunately I think Mother Nature has been reading from my notes as of late.
CK: Wow, reading about those residing behind the Veil being upset with humans because we are destroying the world just sent chills over me. We have definitely destroyed this planet R.G. Sad to say, but Mother Earth will never be the same again. I’m eager for you to share one of your interesting stories with us.
RG: Shades of Night (Demon's Gate Book 1) is one of my most recent releases. It involves a conspiracy in the world of vampires who wish to plunge the world into eternal darkness and make humans no longer the dominant species. There are hunters, Fae, undead and many twists and turns in this series. Krystoff is the vampire hunter who finds he is the guardian of Alexandria who is half human and half fae. As they develop their bond the extent of the conspiracy unfolds.
CK: Whew, sounds like an exciting read that I MUST check out! Where do you see yourself two years from now?
RG: That I will have won the Lotto! Kidding kidding. I am hoping that I will have the fourth book ready in my Darkness Unleashed series written as well as the second book in my Dragon's Legacy trilogy. If I'm really lucky I will have also found a good home for Desert Ice and begun work on Night's Fire (the second book in the Demon's Gate series). Also keeping fingers crossed that an Agent will snatch me up. :)
CK: Ha ha, I have those Lotto fantasies too! I can picture you as New York best selling author. Continue with your writing, and it will happen. The Darkness Unleashed series and Dragon’s Legacy Trilogy are excellent platforms you have created. I’m sure an agent will pick you up in a heart beat. ; )
What are your hobbies R.G.?
RG: Reading, music and watching movies are on the top of my list. Past that watching thunderstorms when they roll in.
CK: How do you unwind?
RG: I daydream about what I'm writing. It helps me calm my mind unlike anything else. If I'm really lucky there will be a storm going on outside and I will be relaxed in no time.
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
RG: It depends on the character. Some of them come about entirely as the story progresses, others I may use things I see on a day to day basis. It's all dependant on the storyline and how its unfolding. I'm always watching everything around me, making mental notes of things that might be helpful down the line.
CK: What are your favorite paranormal creatures? I know this is a toughie, but please pick two.
RG: That's a tough question. I love the idea of the Fae in the sense of a species that although magical are attuned to nature. I also adore shape-shifters. Not in the sense of werewolves but those with the ability to shift into anything. It is what drew me to writing the Darkness Unleashed series. To attune to an animal and be part of that world is very appealing.
CK: Wow, I’m intrigued R.G. You are a very talented author. Please tell us where you be found on the internet?
RG: I can be found in a few places. Website: http://www.rgporter.net/
Twitter: @AuthorRGPorter
Myspace: www.myspace.com/robyn_wren
Facebook: search for robyn.wren@live.com
CK: Wonderful! R.G., thank you so much for sharing your talents with us today. I’m glad we had this opportunity to share your stories with our readers.
RG: I have always loved to write but didn't really think to try and write a full fledged novel till 2005. That adventure resulted in my first book released Shadow of the Wolf.
RG: Anything and everything can help to create those. I love myths and lore from all over. Celtic is what I'm drawn to most but Norse and Egyptian are also large influences in my creative process.
CK: I love Norse and Egyptian too. Where did you submit your first story?
RG: Shadow of the Wolf (Darkness Unleashed Book 1) was first released through Wild Rose Press but has since been revamped and re-released through Tease Publishing.
CK: That sounds like an interesting read R.G. Please tell us how you fit writing into your busy schedule?
RG: That's extremely tricky. Working full-time and raising a family makes my schedule very hectic. Lately I've made sure to make time at least every other night to write. So long as I can plug my ears into my headphones I can concentrate.
CK: Many of us can relate with you on working full-time. What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
RG: Pro would be knowing that the adventures I write are being enjoyed by others. It's the best thing in the world when you know that for just a small bit of time someone else is enjoying the worlds I create. Its amazing. Con would be that I always want to get more done and make the next one better than the last. It's a desire to produce the highest quality work while maintaining ones unique view and voice. Not always easy.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
RG: Currently I've begun an entire new series that I am beyond excited about. The series is called Veil Rift and the first book is titled Desert Ice. It's unlike anything I've written in the past and has such possibilities. I'd come up with the idea mid last year and started to work out the specifics of it. What I can tell you is that it involves the human realm and one that resides just past a veil within our world. Those from beyond the Veil are upset with the humans because we are destroying our world which is bleeding over into theirs. A few cross over and have plans to make our kind extinct by unleashing catastrophic natural disasters.
First draft is nearly halfway done and I can say so far I adore this series so far. Unfortunately I think Mother Nature has been reading from my notes as of late.
CK: Wow, reading about those residing behind the Veil being upset with humans because we are destroying the world just sent chills over me. We have definitely destroyed this planet R.G. Sad to say, but Mother Earth will never be the same again. I’m eager for you to share one of your interesting stories with us.
RG: Shades of Night (Demon's Gate Book 1) is one of my most recent releases. It involves a conspiracy in the world of vampires who wish to plunge the world into eternal darkness and make humans no longer the dominant species. There are hunters, Fae, undead and many twists and turns in this series. Krystoff is the vampire hunter who finds he is the guardian of Alexandria who is half human and half fae. As they develop their bond the extent of the conspiracy unfolds.
CK: Whew, sounds like an exciting read that I MUST check out! Where do you see yourself two years from now?
RG: That I will have won the Lotto! Kidding kidding. I am hoping that I will have the fourth book ready in my Darkness Unleashed series written as well as the second book in my Dragon's Legacy trilogy. If I'm really lucky I will have also found a good home for Desert Ice and begun work on Night's Fire (the second book in the Demon's Gate series). Also keeping fingers crossed that an Agent will snatch me up. :)
CK: Ha ha, I have those Lotto fantasies too! I can picture you as New York best selling author. Continue with your writing, and it will happen. The Darkness Unleashed series and Dragon’s Legacy Trilogy are excellent platforms you have created. I’m sure an agent will pick you up in a heart beat. ; )
What are your hobbies R.G.?
RG: Reading, music and watching movies are on the top of my list. Past that watching thunderstorms when they roll in.
CK: How do you unwind?
RG: I daydream about what I'm writing. It helps me calm my mind unlike anything else. If I'm really lucky there will be a storm going on outside and I will be relaxed in no time.
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
RG: It depends on the character. Some of them come about entirely as the story progresses, others I may use things I see on a day to day basis. It's all dependant on the storyline and how its unfolding. I'm always watching everything around me, making mental notes of things that might be helpful down the line.
CK: What are your favorite paranormal creatures? I know this is a toughie, but please pick two.
RG: That's a tough question. I love the idea of the Fae in the sense of a species that although magical are attuned to nature. I also adore shape-shifters. Not in the sense of werewolves but those with the ability to shift into anything. It is what drew me to writing the Darkness Unleashed series. To attune to an animal and be part of that world is very appealing.
CK: Wow, I’m intrigued R.G. You are a very talented author. Please tell us where you be found on the internet?
RG: I can be found in a few places. Website: http://www.rgporter.net/
Twitter: @AuthorRGPorter
Myspace: www.myspace.com/robyn_wren
Facebook: search for robyn.wren@live.com
Monday, May 24, 2010
Author Spotlight on Ashley Blade ~
CK: Hello! Please welcome fellow Eirelander author, Ashley Blade.
AB: First, I have got to say thank you Charisma for having me and I am excited to be here with you today…so where are those questions you have for me??
CK: When did you launch your writing career?
AB: I started writing when I got my first computer about six years ago. I dabbled at first but then I got really serious about it and started asking questions. Pretty soon I felt comfortable enough that I started submitting and last year I got my first contract.
CK: Where do you come up with some of the awesome creatures you create?
AB: Well it’s kinda like sitting in a café at a table by myself and this person walks in and starts talking. When I ask for a name they say I don’t know, but you better make it good. So I write the story and find the name that fits. Sometimes I can go through five names before I get the ok from the character.
CK: Where did you submit your first story?
AB: Cobblestone and got rejected…LOL!!! I believe there are reasons why you get rejected or whatever. You’re not where you’re supposed to be and now I am. I needed those rejections so I could work my way through the process to find Eirelander.
CK: Hey, we've all had our share of rejections. They are nothing but learning experiences. You found an excellent home for your story!
How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
AB: I try to get some in while I work, but most of the time it is about 9pm until I just can’t keep my eyes open.
CK: What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
AB: The pros are numerous, I mean, you get to share your characters their lives and worlds with the people. You get fans, which is weird and too surreal for me and extra spending cash to buy more books with! The cons of it are also numerous, I mean you have to worry if it will be good enough, if it will sell, the demand to write more and then the sacrifice of time too. You have to remember that when you write you have deadlines and edits and promo and everything that goes with it. If you can’t work with that then you need to really think is this what I want to do.
CK: Yes, sharing your craft with the world can be such a wonderful experience. Honestly, I'm still in shock from having fans. I love their encouragement, and it really is rewarding when they reach out to me. I think we all wonder if our writing is good enough. Writing is indeed a sacrifice. You must fit it in among other areas of your life such as children, day job, home, etc. It is so worth the sacrifice. Promoting is necessary to anyone's writing career, and can be time consuming, but one way or the other, we all learn how to juggle things successfully.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
AB: My most recent project is A Dangerous Game, out now. It is about two people who find each other not in the most advantages time. Especially when there is another person involved. The story is mostly about trusting again, love and dealing with the consequences of a sexual fantasy come true.
CK: Can't wait to see an excerpt!
AB: Sure here it is:
A Dangerous Game
Suzy stood at the front of the restaurant waiting for the clock to hit eight. Trace was supposed to meet her there for their weekly adventure. Each time they were someone different, a nurse and a fireman, police and a bank robber. Suzy laughed just thinking about their little adventures. Tonight however, she was the hostess and he was the owner of one of L.A.’s finest establishments.
She looked toward the door; he was running late and Saul wasn’t going to allow their little role play interfere with his service any longer than it had to. Come on Trace, where the hell are you? she silently chastised him.
“Sweetheart, if he isn’t here in twenty you have to go, you know I can’t risk PD taking my license, especially after that little incident a couple of months ago.” His Spanish accent was thick and alluring.
“I know Saul, I promise he will be here.” Suzy knew he would show, but sometimes he could be an ass about it. They weren’t in a traditional relationship…it was more of a convenience for them. Trace had his heart broken one too many times and so did she, so love was the furthest thing from their minds.
The swooshing of the front door jarred her from her thoughts. Trace stood before her with a beautiful woman on his arm. Any thought she may have had of role playing with her lover were gone, leaving Suzy cringing. She was not the jealous type but damn, did he have to rub it in her face that he could have any beautiful woman he wanted and she was doomed to be practically alone?
He walked toward her, his cocky grin firmly in place. The redhead he sported on his right arm oozed sex and screamed ‘take me now.’ Suzy felt something raw and primal fill her senses. She wasn’t sure if it was jealousy or lust. Who are you lusting after Suzy-Q, the woman or Trace? “Does it matter?” she mumbled to herself.
“Does what matter?” Trace asked taking his normal place beside her.
“Nothing,” she growled, but blushed when he cocked his brow at her. “Who’s the cheap trick?” she asked changing the subject. Trace squirmed.
“She was going to be our playmate for the night but if you want I could toss her,” he chuckled as the redhead snarled at him.
“I didn’t say toss her, I was just curious.”
Suzy was nervous, never had she even thought about having a threesome, but something about the woman had her on edge. She looked over her shoulder at Saul and found him standing by the bar, a smile on his face as his hand formed a claw and swiped the air. Suzy giggled and waving good-bye mouthed “thank you.”
*****
The bright lights of the Hilton Marquee filled Trace’s BMW and blinded Suzy for a moment. Her teeth chattered from nervousness as she sat in the front seat. She was used to their hum drum sex life, vanilla was what Saul called it, but now Trace was adding an element she wasn’t so sure about. Before she could voice her concerns the valet had opened her door and was helping her out.
“Welcome to the Hilton, we hope you enjoy your stay,” he said smiling at her.
Oh yeah, she was definitely going to enjoy her stay. Trace had something planned, she could feel it; what it was though, she had no clue. “Thanks,” she murmured.
Traced stepped around the vehicle and wrapped his arms around her and their faithful companion for the night. Was it rude of her to not inquire the woman’s name, or was this part of the role play? Suzy wasn’t sure, but when Trace’s hand squeezed her hip desire began to pool between her thighs. She wanted to hate him—hate his ability to draw those responses out of her, but she couldn’t.
“You two wait right here and play nice while I get the key,” he grinned kissing both women on the cheek.
Suzy decided she would be the bigger woman and play nice. “Hi, I’m Suzy, sorry about earlier.” She extended her hand out to the other woman.
The redhead looked down over her pert nose at Suzy, “Are you talking to me?”
Bitch, she thought lowering her hand. “Yeah, I mean if this is something Trace wants to do, we should at least get to know each other a little before we fuck or whatever.” She was nervous and when she was nervous she blathered on like a school girl.
The woman laughed, “What makes you think he wants both of us, especially when he can have me all to himself?”
Suzy scowled and turned away from the woman. Whatever it was she felt began to falter as she looked for Trace. “Well, someone will have to remove the stick you have stuck up your narrow snatch before he’ll want you,” she smirked as Trace rejoined them.
“Ready ladies?”
**END EXCERPT**
CK: Hott! What an enticing excerpt Ashley! I told you months ago when you shared that excerpt the book had me curious!! Sounds like an awesome read. Thank you for that excerpt!!
Where do you see yourself two years from now? Well in my well placed imagination I am sipping fuzzy navels on North shore, Hawaii, of course, with a handsome cabana boy to have at my beck and call…because of course I’m rich and famous. LOL!!! In reality, I would hope all of this, pans out and I can write full time from my house and not have to worry about making the bills every month.
CK: What are your hobbies?
AB: I like to fish, camp, quilt, take pictures, write, yes write because to me it’s fun…uhh...I like watching NASCAR, I have been to a race, it was fun. I also like to explore things, I live in an area that is rich in history so I love finding out new things, especially about the civil war.
CK: Cool, I enjoy fishing too. Only thing is, I can't stand hooking a worm. LOL Once it's water logged, then I'm okay with touching it. Imagine that! Ha Ha
CK: How do you unwind?
AB: Usually I read, or watch TV, anything to wind my brain down after staring at a computer all day LOL!!!
CK: Yeah, I hear you. LOL
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
AB: The majority of my characters come from my imagination, some though are molded after people, which ones, I’ll leave up to my readers to figure out.
CK: What are your favorite paranormal creatures? Pick two please.
AB: Oh now that is hard…Vampires would be the easy answer right, I mean with all the True Blood hype and everything…same with werewolves. I would have to say demons and zombies…right now they aren’t very popular, but I have a feeling pretty soon Zombies are going to be the next Vampire.
CK: I know, vampires are my first love too! I love True Blood! That and Vampire Diaries! You know, I thought of writing about zombies. LOL
CK: Where can you be found on the internet?
AB: You can find me on Facebook under Ashley Blade, http://ashleybladereviews.blogspot.com/ and at http://eirelander-publishing.com/
CK: Ashley, thank you so much for sharing. It was awesome having you here today! Congratulations to you on the new release, and may there be many sales!
AB: Thanks Charisma! I had a blast too!
AB: First, I have got to say thank you Charisma for having me and I am excited to be here with you today…so where are those questions you have for me??
CK: When did you launch your writing career?
AB: I started writing when I got my first computer about six years ago. I dabbled at first but then I got really serious about it and started asking questions. Pretty soon I felt comfortable enough that I started submitting and last year I got my first contract.
CK: Where do you come up with some of the awesome creatures you create?
AB: Well it’s kinda like sitting in a café at a table by myself and this person walks in and starts talking. When I ask for a name they say I don’t know, but you better make it good. So I write the story and find the name that fits. Sometimes I can go through five names before I get the ok from the character.
CK: Where did you submit your first story?
AB: Cobblestone and got rejected…LOL!!! I believe there are reasons why you get rejected or whatever. You’re not where you’re supposed to be and now I am. I needed those rejections so I could work my way through the process to find Eirelander.
CK: Hey, we've all had our share of rejections. They are nothing but learning experiences. You found an excellent home for your story!
How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
AB: I try to get some in while I work, but most of the time it is about 9pm until I just can’t keep my eyes open.
CK: What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
AB: The pros are numerous, I mean, you get to share your characters their lives and worlds with the people. You get fans, which is weird and too surreal for me and extra spending cash to buy more books with! The cons of it are also numerous, I mean you have to worry if it will be good enough, if it will sell, the demand to write more and then the sacrifice of time too. You have to remember that when you write you have deadlines and edits and promo and everything that goes with it. If you can’t work with that then you need to really think is this what I want to do.
CK: Yes, sharing your craft with the world can be such a wonderful experience. Honestly, I'm still in shock from having fans. I love their encouragement, and it really is rewarding when they reach out to me. I think we all wonder if our writing is good enough. Writing is indeed a sacrifice. You must fit it in among other areas of your life such as children, day job, home, etc. It is so worth the sacrifice. Promoting is necessary to anyone's writing career, and can be time consuming, but one way or the other, we all learn how to juggle things successfully.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
AB: My most recent project is A Dangerous Game, out now. It is about two people who find each other not in the most advantages time. Especially when there is another person involved. The story is mostly about trusting again, love and dealing with the consequences of a sexual fantasy come true.
CK: Can't wait to see an excerpt!
AB: Sure here it is:
A Dangerous Game
Suzy stood at the front of the restaurant waiting for the clock to hit eight. Trace was supposed to meet her there for their weekly adventure. Each time they were someone different, a nurse and a fireman, police and a bank robber. Suzy laughed just thinking about their little adventures. Tonight however, she was the hostess and he was the owner of one of L.A.’s finest establishments.
She looked toward the door; he was running late and Saul wasn’t going to allow their little role play interfere with his service any longer than it had to. Come on Trace, where the hell are you? she silently chastised him.
“Sweetheart, if he isn’t here in twenty you have to go, you know I can’t risk PD taking my license, especially after that little incident a couple of months ago.” His Spanish accent was thick and alluring.
“I know Saul, I promise he will be here.” Suzy knew he would show, but sometimes he could be an ass about it. They weren’t in a traditional relationship…it was more of a convenience for them. Trace had his heart broken one too many times and so did she, so love was the furthest thing from their minds.
The swooshing of the front door jarred her from her thoughts. Trace stood before her with a beautiful woman on his arm. Any thought she may have had of role playing with her lover were gone, leaving Suzy cringing. She was not the jealous type but damn, did he have to rub it in her face that he could have any beautiful woman he wanted and she was doomed to be practically alone?
He walked toward her, his cocky grin firmly in place. The redhead he sported on his right arm oozed sex and screamed ‘take me now.’ Suzy felt something raw and primal fill her senses. She wasn’t sure if it was jealousy or lust. Who are you lusting after Suzy-Q, the woman or Trace? “Does it matter?” she mumbled to herself.
“Does what matter?” Trace asked taking his normal place beside her.
“Nothing,” she growled, but blushed when he cocked his brow at her. “Who’s the cheap trick?” she asked changing the subject. Trace squirmed.
“She was going to be our playmate for the night but if you want I could toss her,” he chuckled as the redhead snarled at him.
“I didn’t say toss her, I was just curious.”
Suzy was nervous, never had she even thought about having a threesome, but something about the woman had her on edge. She looked over her shoulder at Saul and found him standing by the bar, a smile on his face as his hand formed a claw and swiped the air. Suzy giggled and waving good-bye mouthed “thank you.”
*****
The bright lights of the Hilton Marquee filled Trace’s BMW and blinded Suzy for a moment. Her teeth chattered from nervousness as she sat in the front seat. She was used to their hum drum sex life, vanilla was what Saul called it, but now Trace was adding an element she wasn’t so sure about. Before she could voice her concerns the valet had opened her door and was helping her out.
“Welcome to the Hilton, we hope you enjoy your stay,” he said smiling at her.
Oh yeah, she was definitely going to enjoy her stay. Trace had something planned, she could feel it; what it was though, she had no clue. “Thanks,” she murmured.
Traced stepped around the vehicle and wrapped his arms around her and their faithful companion for the night. Was it rude of her to not inquire the woman’s name, or was this part of the role play? Suzy wasn’t sure, but when Trace’s hand squeezed her hip desire began to pool between her thighs. She wanted to hate him—hate his ability to draw those responses out of her, but she couldn’t.
“You two wait right here and play nice while I get the key,” he grinned kissing both women on the cheek.
Suzy decided she would be the bigger woman and play nice. “Hi, I’m Suzy, sorry about earlier.” She extended her hand out to the other woman.
The redhead looked down over her pert nose at Suzy, “Are you talking to me?”
Bitch, she thought lowering her hand. “Yeah, I mean if this is something Trace wants to do, we should at least get to know each other a little before we fuck or whatever.” She was nervous and when she was nervous she blathered on like a school girl.
The woman laughed, “What makes you think he wants both of us, especially when he can have me all to himself?”
Suzy scowled and turned away from the woman. Whatever it was she felt began to falter as she looked for Trace. “Well, someone will have to remove the stick you have stuck up your narrow snatch before he’ll want you,” she smirked as Trace rejoined them.
“Ready ladies?”
**END EXCERPT**
CK: Hott! What an enticing excerpt Ashley! I told you months ago when you shared that excerpt the book had me curious!! Sounds like an awesome read. Thank you for that excerpt!!
Where do you see yourself two years from now? Well in my well placed imagination I am sipping fuzzy navels on North shore, Hawaii, of course, with a handsome cabana boy to have at my beck and call…because of course I’m rich and famous. LOL!!! In reality, I would hope all of this, pans out and I can write full time from my house and not have to worry about making the bills every month.
CK: What are your hobbies?
AB: I like to fish, camp, quilt, take pictures, write, yes write because to me it’s fun…uhh...I like watching NASCAR, I have been to a race, it was fun. I also like to explore things, I live in an area that is rich in history so I love finding out new things, especially about the civil war.
CK: Cool, I enjoy fishing too. Only thing is, I can't stand hooking a worm. LOL Once it's water logged, then I'm okay with touching it. Imagine that! Ha Ha
CK: How do you unwind?
AB: Usually I read, or watch TV, anything to wind my brain down after staring at a computer all day LOL!!!
CK: Yeah, I hear you. LOL
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
AB: The majority of my characters come from my imagination, some though are molded after people, which ones, I’ll leave up to my readers to figure out.
CK: What are your favorite paranormal creatures? Pick two please.
AB: Oh now that is hard…Vampires would be the easy answer right, I mean with all the True Blood hype and everything…same with werewolves. I would have to say demons and zombies…right now they aren’t very popular, but I have a feeling pretty soon Zombies are going to be the next Vampire.
CK: I know, vampires are my first love too! I love True Blood! That and Vampire Diaries! You know, I thought of writing about zombies. LOL
CK: Where can you be found on the internet?
AB: You can find me on Facebook under Ashley Blade, http://ashleybladereviews.blogspot.com/ and at http://eirelander-publishing.com/
CK: Ashley, thank you so much for sharing. It was awesome having you here today! Congratulations to you on the new release, and may there be many sales!
AB: Thanks Charisma! I had a blast too!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Wolf's Obsession Now Available at All Romance Ebooks
My three part story, Wolf's Obsession is now available at All Romance Ebooks. These books are free reads and were written last year for Night Owl Romance.
My hero, Thorne Cloudfeather is the leader of The Black Claws who senses his mate from his home in New Orleans. Starr is thousands of miles away in Charm City, so once he senses her, there is no stopping him. Unfortunately, my alpha leader does neglect his duties to his clan in Part 2. In Part 3, Thorne learns a valuable lesson regarding self-sacrifice and forgiveness.
Sometimes life throws us in a position where we feel helpless, rendering us into a state in which we succumb to strong emotions such as anger. Have you ever been so mad, to the point where you literally see red? If so, did you let that emotion lead you to damnation, or did you calm yourself and regain a hold on those emotions?
With every action, there is a reaction that may affect others in a negative way. Sometimes, that reaction can cause you to lose those closest to you, forever. This is a lesson Thorne learns in part 3. My hero is strong, but he does lose his way in Part 2. No one is perfect.
I hope you enjoy this free read.
Wolf's Obsession
My hero, Thorne Cloudfeather is the leader of The Black Claws who senses his mate from his home in New Orleans. Starr is thousands of miles away in Charm City, so once he senses her, there is no stopping him. Unfortunately, my alpha leader does neglect his duties to his clan in Part 2. In Part 3, Thorne learns a valuable lesson regarding self-sacrifice and forgiveness.
Sometimes life throws us in a position where we feel helpless, rendering us into a state in which we succumb to strong emotions such as anger. Have you ever been so mad, to the point where you literally see red? If so, did you let that emotion lead you to damnation, or did you calm yourself and regain a hold on those emotions?
With every action, there is a reaction that may affect others in a negative way. Sometimes, that reaction can cause you to lose those closest to you, forever. This is a lesson Thorne learns in part 3. My hero is strong, but he does lose his way in Part 2. No one is perfect.
I hope you enjoy this free read.
Wolf's Obsession
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Author in the Spotlight ~ Eve Langlais
CK: Hello Everyone! Please welcome Eve Langlais.
When did you launch your writing career?
EL: Well my first book came out March 19th of this year, but I sat down to seriously write in February of 2009.
CK: Where do you come up with some of the awesome creatures you create?
EL: Don’t laugh, but some of my greatest ideas have come from listening to 80's music while driving. The worse part is having to wait til I get home to write them down. When I got my idea for a fallen angel while listening to HoneyMoon suite, I chanted the line I wanted to use all the way home. Needless to say my family often looks at me funny.
CK: Hey, not laughing at all. Isn’t it awesome how ideas come to you while listening to music? Yeah, I get strange looks from my family too. Where did you submit your first story?
EL: I submitted my first novel Take A Chance to Champagne Books and to my surprise and joy they took it. It’s due to come out on June 1st.
CK: Congratulations to you for the upcoming release! How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
EL: It’s not easy fitting writing into my regular life especially considering I work from home full time and am a mom of three, the youngest of which is still at home with me. I try to make a goal of 10k words a week though which is usually pretty easy to meet and often exceeded.
CK: Yup, we all must learn that balancing act, especially when children are involved. You have your hands full. My hat goes off to you for being a successful writer while caring for three children during the day. What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
EL: Pro – it is so neat to be able to tell people I’m an author even as I’m blushing and ducking my head because I’m shy about it. Con-I hate the marketing aspect. Selling myself and the books I’m writing is hard. But I’ve been making great friends though on that journey so it’s not all bad.
CK: Ah yes, the “M” word. It takes time, but it is a necessary evil. This is what I enjoy about marketing, meeting new and exciting artists along the way. Please, tell us about your most recent project.
EL: Goodness, I always seem to have a couple going at once. I recently finished work on one set in the near future where most of humanity has died because of a pandemic. I’m also working on one with a wicked witch who hooks up with a shifter. Kind of a bad girl meets bad guy. Sparks are flying on that one.
CK: Please share one of your stories with us.
EL: Here’s an excerpt from my May 14th release Alien Mate with Amira Press, A spicy sci-fi romance with probes of a pleasurable kind.
The day Diana met her first alien dawned liked any other—with a dry, cottony mouth and a bad case of bed head. She didn’t even have any warning because, unlike the X Files and sci-fi movies, she didn’t see any lights in the sky, and her TV image didn’t go all snowy. That kind of pissed her off, because had she known she would be having an up-close-and-personal encounter with life from another planet, she might have at least brushed her hair and worn something other than her ragged robe, plaid boxer shorts, and loose tank top. Anyways, there she stood, ironing her underwear—being single left her with way too much time on her hands—when suddenly, IT appeared in the middle of her living room. It wasn’t a spectacular living room as living rooms went outfitted with a secondhand sagging couch and chair, a coffee table that wobbled, and some kind of Oriental print rug in bad need of a beating. A receptionist’s salary didn’t go far in the city.
Needless to say, when IT appeared, he did so right on top of her flimsy coffee table, which under its weight collapsed, something her visitor absently noted when it looked down at its bare and fairly large feet.
Studying it in shock, Diana amended the “IT” part to “Holy Hunk” because, if it hadn’t been for the fact his skin shone a startling sky blue, she would have mistaken him for some super-hot underwear model—one who magically appeared in her living room, only sans the underwear.
Good thing he’s hung like a . . .
With flaming cheeks, Diana quickly averted her gaze, but his sizable endowment stayed with her, and flustered, she stammered, “Wh-Who are you?” Other than the most gorgeous naked man I’ve ever seen. She was so startled by her naked visitor that she accidentally left the iron lying on her underwear too long, and a burning smell wafted up. Nose twitching, Diana quickly set the iron upright and looked down in dismay at the big burn mark on the ass of her favorite pair of undies. Damn.
So of course her blue alien chuckled—yes, apparently creatures from space or alternate dimensions had senses of humor too.
“Greetings, earthling female,” said a voice, smooth as hot, melted chocolate with just a hint of an accent. “I come in peace. I will be your leader.”
Startled by her alien’s horrible B-movie speech, Diana said the only thing that came to mind. “Um, isn’t that supposed to be ‘Take me to your leader’?”
Brilliant white teeth that shone opalescent like pearls between darker blue lips appeared when he smiled. “No, you heard me correctly, earthling. I’ve come to be your leader.”
Diana laughed. She just couldn’t help herself. Of all the things she expected him to say, that had to rank as one of the dumbest. His face remained quite serious, though, so of course she continued to howl even when she saw a tinge of annoyance draw his handsome features tight.
“I fail to see the humor, earthling female. I will be your leader. You will respect me as is my due.”
Diana cackled again, wiping the tears in her eyes with the back of her hand. “Oh, you are so funny. And just how is one naked alien going to convince the world that he’s now their new leader?” Diana giggled anew at the thought of him aiming that weapon between his legs. Given its, size he’d definitely intimidate the male population and make the female one swoon.
A frown met her answer, followed by a wide Colgate smile, which made Diana wonder—do aliens brush their teeth?
“I never said I intended to rule the world, earthling. I’ve come to be your leader. You have been chosen by the oracle and the spirits of my ancestors to be my mate,” he stated with a self-satisfied grin.
CK: Ummm, sounds hott! Thank you for that tidbit. I’ve had my eye on your book but have not set aside the time to read it. Where do you see yourself two years from now?
EL: In two years I will hopefully have a massive back list and be able to relax sipping pina colada’s instead of going cross eyed doing marketing. LOL. I just hope the ideas keep coming and than my fingers keep flying.
CK: LOL. Those ideas will develop so fast, you won’t know what hit you. What are your hobbies?
EL: Reading has always been a huge part of my life. I also love to play rpg’s, my current favorite is an online game called Evony II. Being a mom, I also spend a lot of time with my kids, swimming being a favorite summer pastime.
CK: Awesome! Spending quality time with our children is very important. How do you unwind?
EL: My hobbies are my unwind time. Reading and gaming once the kids go to bed or hanging out with my hubby watching our favorite shows like Survivor and Vampire Diaries is a nice way to relax. On Saturday nights when he goes out with the boys, I love to play Evony with my online war buddies.
CK: Vampire Diaries, now that’s my show, along with True Blood, of course. Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
EL: A bit of both. With The Hunter, I molded the personality of the three year old twins from that of my own children. The alpha tendencies of my heroes are taken somewhat from my husband. What can I say, I love a big tough guy. Others are complete fabrications of my twisted mine. LOL.
CK: What are your favorite paranormal creatures? Pick two please.
EL: Demons and shifters. But vamps are really close behind. Demons are just the ultimate in bad ass dudes. You can shape them to be whatever you want and give them magic too, or not, depends on my mood. And shifters, well, their territorial alpha tendencies are just plain hot.
CK: Where can you be found on the internet?
On my site you can find links to my FaceBook Fan Page, MySpace, Ning and also Goodreads. You can also find me on my publisher websites, http://www.AmiraPress.com and ChampagneBooks.com
CK: Eve Langlais, thank you so much for sharing. I’m totally digging Alien Mate. I can’t wait to read it!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Guest Author in The Spotlight~Laura Hogg~
CK: Everyone, please give my guest, Laura Hogg a warm welcome! Laura is also a fellow Eirelander author.
When did you launch your writing career?
LH: I didn’t have the courage to submit my work until about five or six years ago. I got a short story accepted in an ezine called Sage of Consciousness and won a short story contest elsewhere. Wings ePress offered me my first book contract for my historical romance novel, The 12th Kiss, in 2005.
CK: Where do you come up with some of your awesome ideas?
LH: Sometimes I’ll have a dream, wake up and write a one page synopsis, then from there write a whole novel. Other times songs or pictures will spark ideas. Occasionally, I’m inspired by series such as Twilight Zone, or The Highlander. I love time travel and have a series called Romeo vs. Juliet where the hero and heroine travel through the ages. I read a lot of time travel stories, and sometimes ideas arise from those.
CK: See, my stories come to me during meditation, and sometimes in dreams. I can relate to you. Romeo vs. Juliet sounds like an interesting read.
Where did you submit your first story?
LH: After getting rejected by agents, I backed up a little and submitted short stories to ezines and epubs. The first story (unpaid) to get accepted is a story called, Judge, about a female rock musician. (I was in a rock band and drew upon that experience.) After that, epublishers accepted stories. It was exciting getting my very first royalty check in the mail. Even though it was only for 58 cents or something like that, it made me officially a professional writer who got paid for her fiction. An exciting day indeed.
CK: How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
LH: My daughter was in high school when I first got published and is now in college. That helped, as far as time is concerned. When I get home from work at night, I work on my computer for hours. My husband works on his own computer. We get up often and talk or cuddle on the couch watching TV. He makes dinner every night, being the cook of the house, so I lucked out there. I guess starting writing later (I first submitted when I was in my thirties) has been a contributing factor. I never would have had the time in my twenties when I was in college, working, and raising a small child.
CK: What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
LH: I finally got published, yay! That’s a big pro. And those little royalty checks that pop up in the mail have fed my family more than once. Cons? Well, I’m not successful enough yet to answer that, but once in a while, I would get an email from a stranger that did less than thrill me.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
LH: It’s a historical romance set in 1811-1812 London then Russia, during the era of the Napoleonic Wars. Yes, that’s the era of the English Regency, but there’s not a nobleman in sight in my novel. It’s called Descent into Darkness.
Here’s a blurb:
Duncan Amberley has come back from war, fighting Napoleon's men on a ship. Clarissa Hale is a lovely shopkeeper with a great sense of humor. A heroic heart rests inside this insecure, intelligent beauty, and she will be called to prove it. Clarissa and her love are pitted against each other for the sake of their families and some terrible accusations. She will be in constant peril as she gathers evidence to convict Duncan's dangerous brother of a harrowing crime. Duncan's heart breaks when he discovers something about Clarissa's sister. Can their love survive the results of their investigations? They devise a dangerous plan to get to the truth, which brings them into the heart of Napoleon's camp in 1812 Russia as spies. Risking everything, they must get to the truth.
It can be found here: http://www.moongypsypress.com/hogg.php
The cover is beautiful. I just love what the cover artist did.
CK: Please share an interesting paranormal occurrence in your life.
LH: The story of how I got my first book deal is kind of cool. As a Catholic, I have sometimes asked angels to join my prayers with theirs. Once I asked the archangel Raphael for prayers. Shortly afterward, I got an unusual rush of inspiration and wrote a novel with flying fingers. I put the novel, The 12th Kiss, up with a critique board for the better part of a year and revised it. Then I submitted it. The first place rejected it. The second, Wings ePress, offered me a contract. Two months later, the first publisher went out of business. What a coincidence. Prayer to an archangel inspired the book, then a company called Wings gives me my first book deal.
CK: Oh my, that is cool indeed. I truly don’t think that experience was a coincidence. The archangel was truly with you. Where do you see yourself two years from now?
LH: Writing and hopefully back in a band.
CK: What are your hobbies?
LH: Music. I’m also an editor for a couple of epublishers, and a book reviewer as well.
CK: How do you unwind?
LH: Music or reading, or hanging out with my husband. Also, working out.
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
LH: Both. I ride the bus and the train after work at night, and I get a lot of material from people around me on the trek home, but I’ve dreamed some of my stories.
CK: What are your stories based on?
LH: Well, my paranormal stories are based on the supernatural. For example, I have a story called Double Vision, where the hero and heroine fall in love on the astral plane. I also like angels and stories about people with paranormal abilities such as psychic abilities. I respect the vampire/werewolf genre and know some writers such as my friend Jaime who excel in this, but I don’t personally pen stories with such beings. It’s just not my expertise. I do find ghosts very interesting though, and grew up in a haunted house.
CK: That sounds so exciting Laura.
Where can you be found on the Internet?
LH: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=62648343
http://twitter.com/lovebooksmusic
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003F977GI
http://traveltheages.blogspot.com/
http://www.myspace.com/l_hogg
CK: Laura, thank you so much for sharing. It was awesome having you here today! I’m adding your books to my TBR pile on Goodreads.
LH : Thank you! I appreciate your time. It’s been fun. If you or any writer of the paranormal would like to be a guest at my blog, please send me a note.
CK: Thank you Laura, I would love to be a guest on your blog. I’ll shoot you an email.
When did you launch your writing career?
LH: I didn’t have the courage to submit my work until about five or six years ago. I got a short story accepted in an ezine called Sage of Consciousness and won a short story contest elsewhere. Wings ePress offered me my first book contract for my historical romance novel, The 12th Kiss, in 2005.
CK: Where do you come up with some of your awesome ideas?
LH: Sometimes I’ll have a dream, wake up and write a one page synopsis, then from there write a whole novel. Other times songs or pictures will spark ideas. Occasionally, I’m inspired by series such as Twilight Zone, or The Highlander. I love time travel and have a series called Romeo vs. Juliet where the hero and heroine travel through the ages. I read a lot of time travel stories, and sometimes ideas arise from those.
CK: See, my stories come to me during meditation, and sometimes in dreams. I can relate to you. Romeo vs. Juliet sounds like an interesting read.
Where did you submit your first story?
LH: After getting rejected by agents, I backed up a little and submitted short stories to ezines and epubs. The first story (unpaid) to get accepted is a story called, Judge, about a female rock musician. (I was in a rock band and drew upon that experience.) After that, epublishers accepted stories. It was exciting getting my very first royalty check in the mail. Even though it was only for 58 cents or something like that, it made me officially a professional writer who got paid for her fiction. An exciting day indeed.
CK: How do you fit writing into your busy schedule?
LH: My daughter was in high school when I first got published and is now in college. That helped, as far as time is concerned. When I get home from work at night, I work on my computer for hours. My husband works on his own computer. We get up often and talk or cuddle on the couch watching TV. He makes dinner every night, being the cook of the house, so I lucked out there. I guess starting writing later (I first submitted when I was in my thirties) has been a contributing factor. I never would have had the time in my twenties when I was in college, working, and raising a small child.
CK: What are the pros and cons of being a published author?
LH: I finally got published, yay! That’s a big pro. And those little royalty checks that pop up in the mail have fed my family more than once. Cons? Well, I’m not successful enough yet to answer that, but once in a while, I would get an email from a stranger that did less than thrill me.
CK: Please, tell us about your most recent project.
LH: It’s a historical romance set in 1811-1812 London then Russia, during the era of the Napoleonic Wars. Yes, that’s the era of the English Regency, but there’s not a nobleman in sight in my novel. It’s called Descent into Darkness.
Here’s a blurb:
Duncan Amberley has come back from war, fighting Napoleon's men on a ship. Clarissa Hale is a lovely shopkeeper with a great sense of humor. A heroic heart rests inside this insecure, intelligent beauty, and she will be called to prove it. Clarissa and her love are pitted against each other for the sake of their families and some terrible accusations. She will be in constant peril as she gathers evidence to convict Duncan's dangerous brother of a harrowing crime. Duncan's heart breaks when he discovers something about Clarissa's sister. Can their love survive the results of their investigations? They devise a dangerous plan to get to the truth, which brings them into the heart of Napoleon's camp in 1812 Russia as spies. Risking everything, they must get to the truth.
It can be found here: http://www.moongypsypress.com/hogg.php
The cover is beautiful. I just love what the cover artist did.
CK: Please share an interesting paranormal occurrence in your life.
LH: The story of how I got my first book deal is kind of cool. As a Catholic, I have sometimes asked angels to join my prayers with theirs. Once I asked the archangel Raphael for prayers. Shortly afterward, I got an unusual rush of inspiration and wrote a novel with flying fingers. I put the novel, The 12th Kiss, up with a critique board for the better part of a year and revised it. Then I submitted it. The first place rejected it. The second, Wings ePress, offered me a contract. Two months later, the first publisher went out of business. What a coincidence. Prayer to an archangel inspired the book, then a company called Wings gives me my first book deal.
CK: Oh my, that is cool indeed. I truly don’t think that experience was a coincidence. The archangel was truly with you. Where do you see yourself two years from now?
LH: Writing and hopefully back in a band.
CK: What are your hobbies?
LH: Music. I’m also an editor for a couple of epublishers, and a book reviewer as well.
CK: How do you unwind?
LH: Music or reading, or hanging out with my husband. Also, working out.
CK: Do you mold your characters strictly from imagination or from those you cross paths with in everyday life?
LH: Both. I ride the bus and the train after work at night, and I get a lot of material from people around me on the trek home, but I’ve dreamed some of my stories.
CK: What are your stories based on?
LH: Well, my paranormal stories are based on the supernatural. For example, I have a story called Double Vision, where the hero and heroine fall in love on the astral plane. I also like angels and stories about people with paranormal abilities such as psychic abilities. I respect the vampire/werewolf genre and know some writers such as my friend Jaime who excel in this, but I don’t personally pen stories with such beings. It’s just not my expertise. I do find ghosts very interesting though, and grew up in a haunted house.
CK: That sounds so exciting Laura.
Where can you be found on the Internet?
LH: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=62648343
http://twitter.com/lovebooksmusic
http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003F977GI
http://traveltheages.blogspot.com/
http://www.myspace.com/l_hogg
CK: Laura, thank you so much for sharing. It was awesome having you here today! I’m adding your books to my TBR pile on Goodreads.
LH : Thank you! I appreciate your time. It’s been fun. If you or any writer of the paranormal would like to be a guest at my blog, please send me a note.
CK: Thank you Laura, I would love to be a guest on your blog. I’ll shoot you an email.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Author in the Spotlight Pat Cromwell~
Hello! Please welcome Pat Cromwell!
Pat is an interracial romance author who has taken on the responsibility of maintaining an interracial book list on her site. Each time a new book is released, Pat updates this list. Various authors can be found on this list.
CK: Pat, kudos to for creating and maintaining this list. When did you decide to launch the interracial book list?
PC: I decided to create the list back in November of 2009. Prior to November, I wasn’t very knowledgeable of all the various on-line publishers. I knew of only a handful of eBooks sites. Like clockwork I would check the sites hoping to find something with an IR theme. That process alone was frustrating because many of the books are not labeled IR or the cover art is misrepresented. As I discovered more and more sites and joined in on many of the discussion boards for IR themed books I realize that I wasn’t alone in the searching process. I was putting together my website at the time and I wanted to do something different that would be helpful to the writer and the reader. Thus the IR List was born.
CK: Who are some of your favorite authors?
PC: That’s a tough question because there are so many fabulous writers of IR. I’d have to tag Shara Azod right off the bat. When I read her books it is like sitting and listening to someone tell a story. On my instant buy list is Tammy Williams and I recently added Latrivia Nelson. My all time favorite writer to date is Sharon Sala and of course I am a huge Christine Feehan fan. Her Carpathian series is the best.
CK: How do you keep up with maintaining this fabulous list?
PC: It helps when writers and readers participate. I encourage them to send me release information in advance. Other than that, I spend Friday evening or early Saturday morning browsing sites for new release with an IR theme. I hate it when I miss a book! There are several sites that I can always count on. I am always on the lookout for new ePublishers and especially new writers. The downside to doing the list is the amount of money I spend! My TBR pile grows every week.
CK: Does this book list consist of all heat levels for IR romance?
PC: Definitely. A book is eligible for the list as long as it is IR. The genre isn’t a factor either. I have M/M, paranormals, historical, etc. on the list.
CK: Where can we point readers who are searching for various interracial stories?
PC: The list is hosted on my website. It is: http://www.patcromwell.com/irlistcurrent.htm
CK: What are the basic elements you feel readers are searching for with interracial stories.
PC: I can tell you what we are not looking for – books that preach. In my opinion the last thing an IR Junkie wants to read is a book with the central theme focused exclusively on the difference between the main characters race. Don’t get me wrong, I am not so deluded to think race is not an issue today but it is not as mind boggling to see an interracial couple in this day and age, especially in the larger urban areas. I’ll toss a book aside real quick if the heroine utters the words, “what will people think if I date a white man.” Somehow it doesn’t seem right when the primary obstacle keeping the hero and heroine from their happy ever after is the color of their skin and the opinions of those around them. Of course that is a generalization and there is an exception to every rule. If the book takes place in the fifties for example, how could it not be an issue? I’ve used it myself but not to the extent that it is the main focal point.
CK: Pat, thank you for allowing me to interview you. This list will be very informative for readers who are interested in discovering more books written by interracial romance/erotic authors. It was a pleasure having you.
Thanks and happy reading!
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