Author Interview With Tory Michaels

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X- What got you started on your writing path?

T- Too many stories in my head. I had my really really dreadful novel, appropriately titled Obsession, that I wrote when I was 15, queried it to one publisher, and then tossed it. Part of me regrets it, part of me is glad because I don’t know if I could stomach looking at it after all this time, though I still remember the basic story pretty well. Now that I (theoretically) know how to write, maybe I’ll do it over. I did a lot of role-playing games online (either in chat rooms or through computer games, which is actually how I met my husband), and my characters/worlds were always talking to me and encouraging my creativity. Eventually, after a long hiatus after getting married, I came back to writing and have been pecking at it every since.

X- What's your latest release and what inspired you to write it?

T- My latest (first) release is Blood Rage on February 8. There was a combination of things that led me to write it. 1) The main characters had come back with a vengeance after being quiet in my head for 5 years and wouldn’t leave me alone. 2) I was sick of the vampires I was reading about (either angsty a la Angel or evil a la Spike/Dracula), and saw no reason why vampires couldn’t be just like (relatively) normal people going about their lives. 3) I was involved in a Master’s Degree in Public Administration which gave me insight into the bureaucracy of the US government and figured, if vamps (and other non-humans) were openly members of society, wouldn’t it make sense that they would have their own government agency to meet their specific needs (such as licensing magic users & magic shops, running a system of blood banks for the vamps, etc.)? And thus the Bureau of Non-Human Affairs (part of Health and Human Services) was born.

X- List three of your favourite things.

T- My husband/children (sorry, they’re all sorta one unit, and despite my ongoing grumbles, I love ‘em all), my Nook, and chocolate (preferably Lindor).

X- What's one thing most people don't know about you?

T- Hrmmmmm. I’m pretty open about m’self so I don’t know if I have a lot of secrets. I used to play 6 instruments (not at once, obviously, but I knew how): piano, organ, flute, clarinet, oboe, and bassoon.

X- What's next for Tory Michaels?

T- Blood-Mage Rising comes out (I hope) next month and I’ve got other ideas floating around. Now if they’d just solidify into something usable, I’d be a lot happier. I’ve got a futuristic series in mind, which is a spin-off of the Dream-Walker War.

X- Where can readers reach you on the Internet?

T-

www.torymichaels.com – Website/blog

www.facebook.com/authortorymichaels - Facebook personal profile

www.facebook.com/thedreamwalkerwar - Facebook Dream-Walker War series page

Twitter: @torymichaels

Email: torymichaels@live.com or torymichaels@torymichaels.com

I’m on Goodreads too, though I haven’t gotten the author page up and running as of the writing of this, since Blood Rage isn’t out yet.

X- Great! Thanks for taking the time for this interview. It was great having you on Write Outside The Box.



Interviewing Georgia Fox

Georgia Fox is the awesome author of many erotic titles. Her talent for writing historical romance is vast and it shows in every work. She agreed to me a small glimpse into her writing career and shared with us her most recent release.

X- Tell us what started you on the writing path.

G- I've always had stories in my head. I can remember writing my first book at the age of ten. It must have been around that time I realized people could actually make money as a writer - that it could be a career. But I never seriously thought of showing anyone my work and trying to get published until much later. Once I'd plucked up the courage to share my work with a few friends and they encouraged me to try getting it published, that was how the ball got rolling.

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X- What's your latest release?

G- THE WAGERED WENCH is book 5 in The Conquerors series (and the penultimate book in the series). It's the story of a woman struggling to find her place in a male dominated world (11th century England) and the reluctant man who comes to marry her, having won her from her drunken father in a game of dice. It takes place over the space of a year and is divided into four parts, represented by water, air, fire and earth - each one being significant in the development of their steamy romance. It also introduces the hero of the final book - Stryker Bloodaxe - who gets in on some menage action with the hero and heroine.

X- Do you do much research when writing your books?

G- I do. I have tons of history books for every time period LOL. But I don't over-burden the story with too much historical detail. I like the story to be about the characters and their chemistry, rather than a broader history lesson on the political climate. If the reader picks up some interesting facts about living in the era along the way, that's great - I think it sets the scene and puts the reader into the time period much more effectively to have a few nuggets of historical treasure spread about for them to find. The important thing is that they enjoy the story and it transports them to another place for a while. I don't want to teach anyone anything, just entertain.

X- What's something most people don't know about you?

G- Hmmm. That would be telling!

X- What's the book you like the most that you've wrote?

G- Argh! I love them all for different reasons. I think possiblyThe Wagered Wench. It's actually a story I started writing a long time ago and set aside, because I wasn't getting that flow. Then I got it out again one day and suddenly it just took flight. The character of Dominic Coeur-du-loup touches a chord in me, I guess. He's very strong, quiet and much more honorable than he thinks he is. His kindness and intrinsic goodness is just a part of who he is and since its always been there he doesn't think about it, doesn't know to value it. He has a facial scar and assumes that no woman will love him because of it.

X- What can we expect from you within the next year?

G- Book six in The Conquerors series - the final one. And it has some surprises in store for those who've read the other books. I'm going out with a bang! Then I have plans for a new series, which I don't want to say too much about. I also have more books planned for Lumina (the wanton hussy, whose first story came out last year) First, however, I've got a naughty fairy tale almost completed and I'm very excited about it. This one involves a very naughty pussy, a cursed milkmaid, a wicked nobleman, some high-heeled boots and some whips and chains.

Thanks for hosting me, Xon!

X- And thank-you for being here.

Georgia can be found online at: Foxy Tales

Author Interview with Scarlett Sanderson

X- Tell us about your most current release and what inspired you to write it?

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S- Hotel Decadence is a short erotic tale about a Dominant and submissive. Gillian receives a glossy black card from her lover. Written on the card is one short sentence: “Hotel Decadence. 2pm. Pack an overnight bag. Don't be late." The story is about what happens when Gillian obeys her Dominant’s command.

I’ve always been fascinated by BDSM and the power play involved in a D/s relationship. Hotel Decadence stems from that fascination.

X- When did you start writing and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

S- As clichéd as it sounds, I’ve always been a writer. I’ve been writing professionally for six years. I can’t believe it’s been that long! My road to publication was fairly simple. I had it easier than a lot of authors. I saw The Wild Rose Press had just opened their doors and were looking for submissions. I’d recently finished writing a Christmas story and sent it in for consideration. Within a few weeks, I had my first contract. Over the next few years I wrote three more books for Wild Rose and one for Phaze. Then for a few years, writing took a back seat. I acquired my rights back from The Wild Rose Press and have recently been contracted with Ellora’s Cave.

Although the road to publication was easy for me, the journey since has been a rollercoaster.

To all new writers I would say learn your craft and write what you love, but more importantly learn the business. If you want to write professionally you need to treat it as a business venture. I didn’t understand that until a few years ago and it’s started to make things a lot easier. Being published doesn’t make things easier, you still have to work your butt off.

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X- What other things interest you besides writing?

S- History. Besides writing (and reading!), history is my biggest passion. Oh, and Man vs Food. I adore that tv show.

X- What are you currently reading and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

S- I’m currently reading two things. Hard Bitten by Chloe Neill - I love her Chicagoland Vampire series. Not too serious and perfect for a bit of escapism. I’m also reading The Crucifix Killer by Chris Carter.

My TBR pile is HUGE. I can’t stress how large it is! I’ll try and name a few books: Patience by Lisa Valdez, Smokin’ Seventeen by Janet Evanovich, A Clash of Kings by George R. R. Martin, and The Poison Tree by Erin Kelly.

X- If you could relive one moment in time, which one would it be?

S- Any moment in the Tudor period of history. I’m a bit of a Tudor addict and would love to have lived during that period.

X- Name one item you cannot do without in life and why.

S- Hmmm, difficult one. I would have to say my iPhone. I swore I would never get one and if I did I would NOT be one of those people who is constantly flicking through various apps or web pages.

It’s sad to say I am now one of those people.

X- What’s your favourite flower?

S- I adore lilies.

X- What’s your ultimate indulgence?

S- Champagne. I’m a sucker for the bubbly stuff.

X- What can we expect to see from you in the future?
S- Hotel Decadence is available to purchase now from Amazon US and UK.
I have a BDSM novella that has just been contracted with Ellora’s Cave called Beg Me. Unfortunately there is no release date as of yet. But keep checking my blog for updates.

Right now I’m working on a vampire cowboy space opera, and a D/s lite novel involving cupcakes and an ex-marine who bakes.

Blogspot: http://scarlettsanderson.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/Author_Scarlett

Email: scarlettsanderson at yahoo dot com

X- Thank you for allowing me to interview you. I wish you the best of luck with your writing career.

Author Interview with Liz Strange

X- Thanks, Liz for allowing me to interview you on my blog.

Can you tell us about your journey to publication, and where you draw your inspiration from?

L- I actually didn’t even attempt to get published until I was in my thirties. I’d always been a writer, but only for myself. Some changes in life circumstances gave me a push to start doing the things I really wanted to do. So I cleaned up a novel I’d had hanging around for a number of years and sent it off. Luckily it got picked up right away!

X- What’s the best advice you can offer a newbie writing hoping to publish?

L- Don’t give up. There are always going to be rejections, even for authors who have sold multiple times. It’s a tough business. You have to keep positive, and believe in yourself.

X- Tell us about your newest release.

L- The Embrace of Life and Death is an erotic fantasy, following the forbidden relationship between and angel and a vampire.

Blurb:

Kieran is a hundred-and-twenty-year-old immortal, originally hailing from the harsh, famine-stricken life of 1880s Ireland. He has surpassed death and thrived, gaining wealth, power and knowledge. Azrael is the angel of death, but his mission is far from ominous. He is the protector of the grief-stricken, and the champion of lost souls. The two are polar opposites in mission and nature, yet are inexplicably drawn to one another.

The Supreme One sees all, and when he discovers the truth about the relationship he is enraged. Their commitment to be together must be stronger than his determination to keep them apart.

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X- What’s your favourite dessert?

L- Lemon Meringue pie.

X- If you could return to one moment in time, which would it be?

L- Not sure. We all have ups and downs in life, but that’s what makes us who we are.

X- If you had one wish, what would it be?

L- I’d love to be able to go back in time and witness some of the amazing events that have happened, like the building of the pyramids.

X- What’s the one thing that most people don’t know about you?

L- I am very shy.

X- In ten years where do you hope to be in life?

L- I hope to be a full-time writer.

X- What can we expect to see from you in the near future?

L- I am working on the edits for a mystery at the moment , which should be out in the next few months. I am also working on a young adult fantasy novel.

X- Liz can be reached on the net at the following places.
Website
Twitter

Author Interview with Karenna Colcroft

X- Can you tell us about your journey to publication and where you draw your inspiration from?

K- My journey to publication was a long one. I’ve been writing since I was five years old, and even back then I knew I wanted to be published someday. When I was in college, and again shortly after I graduated, I submitted a YA novel, but got rejected. For several years, I gave up trying to be published and even gave up writing for a little while.

In 2004, I started writing again, and ended up with some YA novels that I thought were publishable, and were much better than what I’d written when I was younger. Then, in 2006, a friend challenged me to use my writing therapeutically to show myself that sex could be something positive and beautiful. The first scene I wrote came out better than I’d thought I could do, and I kept going with it. For a while, I posted my stories on a free story site, but then someone from that site started an erotica/erotic romance e-publisher, and I got a contract from them. My first e-book came out in March, 2009. And the first scene I wrote, back in 2006, is now part of my novel Eternal Love.

I don’t know where I draw my inspiration from, to be honest. Sometimes I use my husband to inspire me, but mostly the ideas just show up on their own.

X- What’s the best advice you can offer a newbie writing hoping to publish?

K- Don’t give up. Some authors receive enough rejections to wallpaper their office! Just keep trying, polish your work, and learn from any rejections you receive, especially if they come with personal comments. Also, find a beta reader or critique partner to help make sure your work is really ready for publication.

X- Tell us about your newest release.

K- My recent release is Reflected Love, part of the Spellbound Treasure line of novellas from Pink Petal Books. Spellbound Treasure is about Etienne, a mysterious woman who runs a shop (sometimes a peddler’s tent, sometimes a website, sometimes an actual store) that sells magical items that bring together soul mates. In my novella, Ralie, a human woman, and Listrial, a Fae soldier, are brought together by a magical mirror each has purchased from Etienne. It’s available at Pink Petal Books. I have a few other releases coming out this summer, so stay tuned!

X- What’s your favourite dessert?

K- Ice cream with hot fudge sauce.

X- If you could return to one moment in time, which would it be?

K- My wedding to my current husband. I was so nervous and excited that the ceremony passed in a blur, and the only things I can remember of it now are the look in his eyes when he saw me in my wedding gown, and my then-14-year-old daughter bursting into tears and being comforted by her 11-year-old sister.

X- If you had one wish, what would it be?

K- Owning a house, rather than renting, with a separate office for me and lots and lots of storage space. And a yard for my younger daughter, who loves to be outside.

X- What’s the one thing that most people don’t know about you?

K- Five years ago, I could barely even say the word “sex,” let alone some of the other terms that go along with it.

X- In ten years where do you hope to be in life?

K- I hope to have at least one book with a big-name publisher, as well as continuing to write for the publishers I work with now. I hope to own the aforementioned house, and in ten years I might have at least one grandchild to visit me there.

X- What can we expect to see from you in the near future?

K- Salad on the Side, an M/M shifter novel from MLR Press. Kyle Slidell, a vegan and recent transplant to Boston, has a crush on his neighbor Tobias Rogan. When Kyle is attacked one night, the truth is revealed: all of his neighbors are werewolves, and Tobias is the pack Alpha. That will be out in June, most likely.

I also have an MFM contemporary romance coming from Passion in Print Press. The title is Shiny Objects. Elena is happy living with her boyfriend Corin, until her former lover Niko returns to her life. She loves both men, but can she have them both? The release is scheduled tentatively for August.

Finally, with a currently undetermined release date, I have an erotic contemporary novella titled Forever with Benefits, which will be coming from Ellora’s Cave. Haylie Betancourt couldn’t wait to leave her hometown after high school. Ten years later, she’s returned due to circumstances beyond her control. When she runs into her high school crush Will Shaw, she sees an opportunity for some fun. But will friends-with-benefits really be enough for them?

I keep my website up to date with current and upcoming releases, works in progress, and current reviews and appearances (though I admit I’m a little behind on that last one…). I also have a blog on that site, which has a new post each day. You can also find me on my website, and Facebook.

Author Interview with Shyla Colt

V- Tell us about your most current release and what inspired you to write it?

S- Don’t Fear the Reaper is a romance novella about love and redemption mixed with a bit of humor and a ton of adventure. When my lead female Brea is killed her guardian angel Nox is unable to leave her to face an eternity in hell. So he strikes a deal with Azrael the angel of death for the future of her soul. Offered a job as reaper Brea is given the opportunity to redeem herself. But Nox proves to be a temptation she is unable to resist.

This book concept started with me thinking about faith and redemption. I wanted to do a romance story that was centered on both. I had Brea’s character sketched out, and knew I wanted her to be offered the job of Reaper. But it was when I saw a picture of Zachary Quinto that all the pieces fell into place. There’s something about him that strikes me as regal, and angelic, yet slightly mischievous.

Coming Soon!

V- When did you start writing, and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

S- I always loved to read, but I would say I really got into writing when I was thirteen. I discovered L.J. Smith’s world of paranormal romance for teens and my imagination took over. I had always been a fan of horror movies, but the concept of the 'Monster' being a love interest, and more human than we imagined had never occurred to me. I spent years sketching out plots and characters, honing my writing skills, and gaining the confidence to actually submit. When I turned 30 this year, I knew it was time to put my work out there and see what response I received. Amazingly, Evernight took a chance on me right out the gate. So in that aspect I was very blessed.

My advice to new writers would be write what you love, read as much as possible, and put your work out there. At first with a trusted friend who will tell you what areas you need to work on, and then to the professionals. Because you never know until you try.

V- What other things interest you besides writing?

S- I like to read, travel, listen to music, and be crafty.

V- What are you currently reading and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

S- Right now I’m reading Designed For love By Yvette Hines with Fragile by Shara Azod, and the Taste of Blood on my wish list for later.

V- If you could relive one moment in time, which one would it be?

S- Oh wow, that’s a tough one. I would say any time during my senior year of college. It was an amazing time in my life I often recall fondly.

V- Name one item you cannot do without in life and why.

S- My Android phone, it pretty much does it all and keeps me connected to everyone

V- What’s your favourite flower?

S- Peony

V- What’s your ultimate indulgence?

S- Travel. With my hubby being a member of the marine core seeing friends and family is few and far inbetween . So any time I get to travel is amazing.

V- What can we expect to see from you in the future?

S- Well right now my first published work Don’t Fear The Reaper is due out at Evernight Publising in August.

V- Thank you, Shyla. I wish you the best of luck with your writing career, and I look forward to your release in August.

Author Interview with Karyn Gerrard

V- What was your journey into publication like, and where do you get your inspiration?

K- It was a quick journey, maybe too quick! Timeless Heart was the first novella I ever submitted to e-book publishers and Evernight offered me a contract almost immediately. A lot of luck there, as luck plays a big part in getting published.

Considering I am a voracious reader, I only started reading romance in a big way about 4 years ago, My first effort and only other submission, a historical romance, was rejected by a print publisher 3 years ago, but I kept writing! Glad I did.

I am inspired everyday by every romance writer I come in contact with, what a generous, support group. Romance readers are the best as well, inspires me to keep writing.

V- What’s your most current release and what can we expect to see from you in the near future?

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K- My current release is my only release at the moment, TIMELESS HEART ♥. I am working on a couple of erotica/paranormal novellas which I just finished yesterday! Now comes the editing. Crossing fingers I am not just a one-pubbed wonder.

V- What words of wisdom do you have for writers just starting their journey?

K- What I said above, keep writing. And submit your work, you never know when a story may just be that story an editor is looking for at that particular moment. Hence the luck I mentioned. Writing can be very solitary, I encourage finding like minded people and connect, whether on Facebook, Twitter, writing forums, blogs or where ever you feel comfortable at. I met some wonderful people who stepped up to the plate to help promote my debut effort, and in other ways to numerous to mention. Get your name out there before you even submit, believe me, it will pay off.

V- Self-publishing has come up so often lately in the media both online and off, what’s your views?

K- Since I am basically a lazy cow, I can't see me ever self-pubbing. Too much work. That may change down the road, but for now? No. I have tons of admiration for anyone going this route, it is a lot of work, and it is really the only reason I am not interested. Yep, lazy.

The view on self-pubbing has changed, it used to be called vanity publishing when you spent big dollars of your own to have a book printed, but thanks to digital, that has all changed. It is certainly made the field more competitive, and that is a good thing. If it gets people reading AND buying more books, either print or digital, it is all to the good.

V- If I were to look at the current books you’re reading, which titles would I find?

K- I am reading a few ARCS for reviews. I love historical romance. I'm reading Jennifer Haymore's Confessions of an Improper Bride. So far, loving it! Also love paranormals, have Kerrelyn Sparks' Vampire Mine next in the TBR pile.

V- What’s the one thing in the world that you cannot live without?

K- My satellite dish, so I can see every Red Sox game! Also my Ipod touch, you would have to pry that out of my cold dead hand!

V- If you could have one wish, what would it be and why?

K- Wow, I could give the standard 'world peace' answer, but I will be more selfish. Good health and long life for me, and all my loved ones.

V- Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

K- Still writing, still watching the Red Sox, and hopefully still content with my life.

Thanks everyone who has been so supportive for my debut effort! It is really, really appreciated
V- Sounds great! And thank you, Karyn, for allowing me to interview and learn more about your writing career.

Karyn can be found online at the following links:

Website
Review Site

Author Interview with Julia Knight

Thanks Julia for allowing me to interview you.

V- What was you journey into publication like, and where do you get your inspiration?

J- A learning curve! I was only really playing around, with my friends reading my MS. One of them kept pushing for me to take it seriously, so I thought I’d give it a shot. I was very lucky – I sold that book 8 months later.

Inspiration comes from everywhere – other books, films, people I know. Even dreams on occasion. It all sort of melts together in my head and comes out twisted.

V- What’s your most current release and what can we expect to see from you in the near future?

J- Ten Ruby Trick is my latest release: It’s a fantasy pirate caper with a splosh of romance. Pirates of the Caribbean with added creepy wizards. Here’s the blurb:

'Privateer Van Gast thrills in capturing treasure; delights in pulling off elaborate scams; and has an outrageous reputation with the ladies. But there is only one woman for him: fellow privateer Josie—seductive, brave and unpredictable. He's hoping to make their relationship permanent, until he raids the wrong ship. Now slavers are stalking him, his crew is verging on mutiny and Josie has disappeared.

When she reappears with a new mark wanting Van Gast's help running the ten ruby trick con, he senses trouble. It seems like Josie has joined up with mage-bound slavers to turn him over to their Master. Van Gast is about to take the biggest risk of all—and find out the true meaning of trust and betrayal.'

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As for what’s coming up, I haven’t signed the contract yet so I can’t say specifics. Let’s just say I see Vikings in my near future :D

V- What words of wisdom do you have for writers just starting their journey?

J- Perseverance. Keep going, keep trying new things, always reach for more.

V- Self-publishing has come up so often lately in the media both online and off, what’s your views?

J- I think if you go into it right, with the right reasons and you’re prepared to work REALLY hard at promo etc, pay to get editing and a decent cover, sure, why not. I doubt I’ll go that route, but it’s been successful for some, and that’s great. Whatever gets people reading is great.

V- If I were to look at the current books you’re reading, which titles would I find?

J- Currently reading The White Raven by Robert Low (historical Vikings, third in the series. I love the marriage of realism, evocation of the time and the lyrical prose. Note it is definitely not for the squeamish!). I tend to flit between historical, SF, fantasy and literary. Next up is Diane Dooley’s Blue Galaxy.

V- What’s the one thing in the world that you cannot live without?

J- My laptop. My handwriting is so hideous, I have to type my stories!

V- If you could have one wish, what would it be and why?

J- I wish I started writing earlier – I didn’t even begin to dabble till I was well into my thirties.

V- Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

J- Hunched over my PC writing.

V- Again, thanks for doing this interview.

Julia can be reached on the Internet at the following places:

Website

Twitter: @Knight_Julia



Interview on Emma Shortt Books

Check me out on Emma Shortt Books!

http://emmashortt.blogspot.com/2011/05/beneath-romance-alternative.html

Author Interview With Kelly Yeakle

First of all, I would like to take a moment to thank Kelly for joining me and allowing me to interview her.

V- What was your journey into publication like, and where do you get your inspiration?

K- My inspiration stems from all sorts of things. I can see something in nature that triggers an idea and that small little spark turns into a campfire before I know it. My kids inspire me a lot. I like to listen to them when they’re playing and they think I’m not listening. Their creativity rubs off on me. My first published novel The Legacy Keeper’s Treasure was picked up right away by Decadent Publishing, and was actually my first attempt at getting published. So my journey was fairly simple, write, submit, accepted.

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V- What’s your most current release and what can we expect to see from you in the near future?

K- My most current release is Timeless through Evernight Publishing. I’m wrapping up a f/f romance right now that I hope will be picked up and available by the end of summer. It’s my first attempt at a non-heterosexual story, and I hope that I don’t let readers in that genre down. It has been a challenge writing it, and that makes it all the more special to me.

V- What words of wisdom do you have for writers just starting their journey?

K- Honestly, don’t sweat the small stuff. Not everyone is going to like what you write, and you may face a few rejections before you get an acceptance. Don’t give up. Keep reaching for your dreams.

V- Self-publishing has come up so often lately in the media both online and off, what’s your views?

K- I was actually approached a while back by a self-publishing company and the deal they offered was really reasonable. I was quite tempted, but I like the fit and feel of an actual publisher because you have a support system that way. Being as new to the writing world as I am, I prefer having that support versus trying to do everything on my own.

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V- And now for some less formal questions.

    

     If I were to look at the current books you’re reading, which titles would I find?

K-  Right now, The Valentine Fae by Emma Shortt is top on my reading list. Most Eligible by Lisa Marie Ordone and Share Your Soul by Rachel Carrington are also on my TBR list. I’m looking forward to the newest Nora Roberts which I believe releases this month sometime as well.

V- What’s the one thing in the world that you cannot live without?

K- I cannot survive without my cell phone. I’m a text addict from the time I get up in the morning until I lay my head down at night. I would also die *insert dramatic sigh here* without my computer!

V- If you could have one wish, what would it be and why?

K- If I could have one wish it would be that there would be a cure for cancer. I have lost people to the ugly disease and know others who have, too. It’s a life taker and I wish they could find a way to cure it.

V- Where do you see yourself ten years from now?

K- Ten years from now I hope to have many more books in circulation for my readers. I would hope that my name will be a little more well known, and that I can consider myself just a wee bit famous.

V- Once again Kelly, thanks for doing this interview. It's been a pleasure.

K- A huge thanks for letting me stop by today! I hope you’ve learned a little more about me.. Feel free to friend me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter (KYeakle27). You can check out my website and my blog .

You can find Timeless at Evernight Publishing and be on the look out for the print version which should be releasing by the end of April or early May.

You can find The Legacy Keeper’s Treasure at Decadent Publishing .
 

Author Interview with Anna Keraleigh

Hi Anna. I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome you to, Write Outside the Box. It's a pleasure having you here.

V- Tell us about your most current release and what inspired you to write it?

A- Hi there, I first wanted to thank you for having me! Fairy Flavor is my current release. It’s the first in a series about an erotic fairy kingdom. Inspiration for me is everywhere and in this case, Irish related. I’ve been obsessed about Ireland and their folklore since I was a child. The moment this seed of an idea came into my head I fell in love with the fairy kingdom.

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V- I have to admit, I do love the cover. When did you start writing and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

A- I was always a reader. My nose constantly in a book, I’m surprised it’s not flat, lol. When I decided to tinkle with words it was simple for my pleasure. Last years I shared it with a few close friends and they enjoyed it. So, I began with research and ended up with a book I’m very proud of as well as a publisher I find a wonderful treat in such a hectic world. Advice to writers would always be one word – research. Research agents/publishers until your head feels like exploding. The only thing worse than a rejection is an acceptance from a bad place. Try Preditors and Editors, that's where I head to first.


V- What other things interest you besides writing?

A- I love boots, boots and more boots. Can you tell I have a boot buying problem? I also have some fish and a cat they keep me on my toes as odd as that sounds. Meow (Cat) likes to wait till I’m out of the room and try to make friends with my poor guppie fish.

 
V- What are you currently reading, and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

A- At this particular moment I just finished First Drop of Crimson by Jeanine Frost. I am in love with her characters, particularly Ian. Yum. I’ll read anything in the Breed Series by Lora Leigh or the Merry Gentry Series by Laurell K. Hamilton. I read just about everything. If it's in front of me, I'll give it a try.
 
Now, let's mix it up a bit with some less formal questions:
 
V- If you could relive one moment in time, which one would it be?

A- You know I can’t think of a single moment where I wanted to stop time and burn the image into my mind. I think I’ll wait for the perfect kiss and use that as the moment to relive. So, where’s Eric Northman? :-)  


V- Name one item you cannot do without in life, and why?
 
A- As odd as this is going to sound, my dvds. True Blood, Firefly, Cleopatra 2525, these are just a few of my favorites, and when I can’t read I drown myself in these fantastic worlds.

 
V- What’s your favorite flower?

A- Sunflowers, they’re not loved by many, odd and somewhat awkward compared to other flowers. They're shunned and I love them for their unique qualites. Flaws are never are bad thing. They also play a wicked part in the Fairy Series. Would you like more of a hint? Giant sunflowers are scattered in the fairy kingdom, big enough to hold two people and it’s more than the sun that’s scorching up there.


V- Very interesting. What’s your ultimate indulgence?

A- Porn, ha! I don’t know, I try to indulge in everything at least once. Life is too short not to.

V- True enough! What can we expect to see from you in the future?

A- I’m currently writing the second Fairy novel, The Ravaged Fairy. This will be Thame’s story and for more info as well as sneak peeks, you can check my website. I love hearing from readers so please make yourself at home on my corner of the web.


Thanks again Anna for allowing me to conduct this interview with you.


Anna can be reached through her website at the following link: Anna Keraleigh

Author Interview with Melissa Hosack

Hi Melissa, and thank-you for taking the time to be interviews on, Write Outside the Box.

V- Tell us about your most current release and what inspired you to write it?

M- My most current release is a short story titled, Do It Fur Love. It was included in the anthology, Indecent Encounters, which was published by Evernight Publishing on February 9th, 2011.
 

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V- When did you start writing and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

M- I have been writing since the second grade. It has always been a passion of mine. In Jr. High, I won a writing contest in my class to have a study session with Colleen O'Shaughnessy Mckenna, which only made me want to be an author even more. I took a position with the Department of Homeland Security under the Transportation Security Administration as the Model Workplace Coordinator Assistant. My main job is to create their newsletter for Western Pennsylvania. I have been writing a short story column for them as well since 2007. In September of 2008, I had my first short story published, More Bark Than Bite, and haven’t look back since.

My advice to writers is to be patient. Good things come with time, and rejection letters are a necessary evil in this business.

V- What other things interest you besides writing?

M- I enjoy watching and playing sports. I love showing my support to the Pittsburgh Penguins and Steelers! I also enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. This summer my husband and I are taking our 16 month old son Marshall Frost on his first vacation. We’re renting a beach house for a week in June. We’re very excited.

V- What are you currently reading and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

M- I am always in the middle of a few books. Right now I am reading, Skin Trade by Laurell K. Hamilton, Angel by James Patterson, and an anthology called, Twas a Dark and Delicious Christmas.

Unfinished by Mary Janice Davidson and a few Kim Harrison novels. Those are all at the top of In my to-be-read pile are usually the newest novels by my favorite authors. I have a few Katie MacAlister books waiting for me. I have Janet Evanovich’s Wicked Appetite. I have Undead and my list.

Now for some less formal, fun questions!

V- If you could relive one moment in time, which one would it be?

M- My husband, our families, and I went on a Disney cruise through the Bahamas a few years ago. That was a total blast. I think I would have to relive that. In a few years, we plan to take my son on the same trip. Instead of reliving, we’ll do it better. :)
 
V- Name one item you cannot do without in life and why.

M- Sadly, that might have to be my cell phone. It is an easy way for me to keep in touch with my husband while he’s at work. I can send him off goofy pictures of our son or just tell him how my day is going. When I’m at work, it’s nice knowing I can send the babysitter a quick text message to see how my son is behaving. Also, I can’t imagine my car breaking down and not having a phone to call for help. I leave for work very early in the morning. I don’t want to be walking the highway at 4 am.
 
V- What’s your favourite flower?

M- Carnations. They are so cute with their little ruffles. At my wedding, there were red carnations that matched the bridesmaids’ dresses, and I thought they were absolutely beautiful.

V- What’s your ultimate indulgence?

M- My favorite indulgence would be taking a long, hot bubble bath while reading a good book. It’s some nice, quiet me time. Everyone needs that every once in a while. Throw in a back massage from my husband afterward and an Oreo Blizzard, and I am in heaven.

V- What can we expect to see from you in the future?
 
M- In May of 2011, I have another short story being published by Evernight Publishing. It will be in an anthology book that includes some other very talented ladies. I’m excited for this release. I really enjoyed these characters.
 
Once again, thank-you, Melissa.
 
Melissa can be reached on the web through her website at the following link: Melissa Hosack








Coming Soon: Guest Blogger and Author Adam Slade

Coming soon: Guest blogger and author, Adam Slade. Adam will blog about a topic of his choice(it's a secret). He will also talk to us about his upcoming book, Strand. Strand will release from Lyrical Press in April, 2011.



For now, you can check out his most current release, A Reaper's Tale.

Lyrical Press

Amazon Kindle

OmniLit



Author Interview with Jayne Fresina

First, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Jayne for her time and willingness to be interviewed. Thanks Jayne!

V- Tell us about your most current release and what inspired you to write it?

J- My current release is Last Rake Standing, a Victorian e-book novella. I started writing the character of Marcus one day and he just crawled in and started taking over. I had Emma already in another story and when I brought the two of them together, they just hit it off. This was my first shorter book (I always used to be much longer-winded!) and I had never tried to write a novella before, so it was an interesting adventure/experiment.
 
V- When did you start writing and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

J- I started writing years ago - just for myself. I never intended to let anyone read what I wrote. Then, one day, I got brave enough to show a few friends who I trusted to give an honest opinion. They gave me enough encouragement and support to keep going and then I started looking into actual publication. I sent out my first book in 2001. Now, looking back, I realize it wasn't ready, but at the time I was proud of it. I had some interest from agents, but that all fizzled out. Then I put my writing away for a few years. About five years ago I picked it up again and got the fever back. I was able to go from working full-time to part-time and that was a huge help for my writing. I started looking for an agent again and after about a year (and several manuscript revisions) I actually landed a top New York agent. She was wonderful, very enthusiastic. I thought that was it and I was finally on my way! Then I started to open my eyes and realize that it's not the way it happens in movies. Writing is a business. It's creative, but it's a business. You can't just write what you want to write, unless what you want to write happens to be what's selling. You have to learn to tailor your writing to the market. It's important to adapt, not be afraid of change. Eighteen months later my agent hadn't been able to sell my first two books and I sensed her motivation waning, which was understandable. Mine was too! It was so frustrating to get that close and to have editors keeping us on tenterhooks, telling us they loved the manuscript one day and then shooting it down the next. So my agent and I parted company and I was back to square one. I was, however, more determined than ever to get published. I think the experience with that agent - who gave me some invaluable writing advice while I was with her, by the way - just set me on the path and gave me the push I needed. Two months later, working on my own, I had my first book contracted to Lyrical Press (Seducing the Beast will be out in August 2011) and a month after that I had "Last Rake Standing" contacted to Evernight Publishing (released in January this year). My advice to anyone writing out there is to persevere. Believe in the characters you write and keep pushing. If one door closes, find another. Crawl in through the window if you have to! Don't be afraid to go it alone. Agents are great, but even getting one doesn't guarantee a sale, so be prepared to do some work on your own and take chances.  



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V- What other things interest you besides writing?

 

J- I spend most of my time writing and don't have a lot spare for other things at the moment. I like going out to dinner occasionally, mostly just relaxing. I used to workout all the time, but sadly that's fallen by the wayside lately!

V- What are you currently reading and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

J- I'm currently re-reading Far From the Madding Crowd. I never keep a to-be-read pile. I read a book as soon as it catches my eye and I don't put it down until I'm done. Unless it bores me.
 
Now for some less formal, fun questions!
 
V- If you had one wish, what would it be?

J- To have my own charter plane, complete with crew, so I could fly anywhere in the world with my dogs. Oh,and quarantine restrictions would have to go, but I guess that's another wish!  

V- Name one item you cannot do without in life and why.

J- Computer - obviously.

V- Cats or dogs?
 
J- Dogs. Love cats too but I've never owned one, so the pooches have to come first.

V- What’s your ultimate indulgence? 

J- Cognac Pumpkin Cheesecake from Shari's Berries.
 
V- What can we expect to see from you in the future?
 

Coming Soon

J- I have a series of three Victorian novellas coming up, Engraved, Entangled and Enraptured. The series title is A Private Collection and it follows the erotic adventures (or misadventures) of the Blackwood brothers who have to find the three women who once posed in scandalous nude portraits for their eccentric father. Each book follows one of the brothers. Engraved is the youngest son Adam's love story. It will be available in March from Evernight Publishing . Information about upcoming books can be found on my website at http://www.jaynefresina.com/ .

V- Jayne, I wish you the best of luck with your writing career, and thanks again for joining us at, Write Outside The Box.

 

 

 

 

 





Author Interview with Shannan Albright

I'd like to welcome author, Shannan Albright to Write Outside the Box. Welcome Shannan!

Vivian- Tell us about your most current release.

Shannan- Dark Passion Rising: A Dark Breed Novel is the first book in the series. The book takes place in “Old Las Vegas” near the famed Fremont Experience. Tambra Ellis is a cop bitten by a Lycan, She is saved by Marcus Valerian a Vampire and Leader of a group of supernatural Enforcers. For this book I asked myself ok, what if all the supernatural monsters we had stories about were true and humans found out? The outcome of this book set’s up all the other that follow in the series, though they are romances they deal with the difficulties of integrating into our society in this day and age.

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Vivian- When did you start writing and what was your road to publication like? Do you have any advice for new writers starting out?

Shannan- I started writing twenty years ago and the road was exceptionally rough. When I started out there was no RWA Organization, no one to help a new writer so it was hit and miss. In my case it was a whole lot of misses. After five years I lost hope and stopped submitting. I never stopped writing though and about five years ago started checking out the market again. I got into RWA, found a local chapter, took tons of workshops and tried my hand at submission again. This time I was accepted and the rest you know.

Vivian- What other things interest you besides writing?

Shannan- I have been involved with Renaissance Fairs for many years as an improv actor. I also give workshops from speaking foresoothly, court etiquette, acting and I also design and teach costuming. I also love to oil paint and do illustration work. I also love to lose myself in a good book, and have tea with good friends.

Vivian- What are you currently reading and what books can be found in your to-be-read pile?

Shannan- Everything from Evernight Publishing of course, the authors there are wonderfully versatile. I just finished Sharon Ashwood’s latest in the Dark Forgotten series and am starting Kresley Cole’s latest Dreams of a Dark Warrior. I love anything from Sherrilyn Kenyon and JR Ward so anything they are coming out with is also on that pile to be read.

Vivian- What can we expect to see from you in the future?

Shannan- I have one completed book in revision stage for a new series that I started several years ago, I am working on books two and three in my Dark Breeds series along with a dark Urban Fantasy dealing with the end of days theme. Plus some novellas that are also in outline stage. So as you can see I like keeping myself busy.

My current e-book, Dark Passion Rising: A Dark Breed Novel is due for release in March by Evernight Publishing. It will be available for download through: Evernight Publishing and Amazon Kindle .

Thanks Vivian for having me on your blog it’s been a lot of fun.

Vivian- And thank you Shannan once again for allowing me to interview you. I wish you the best of luck with your writing career.

Shannan can be reached at the following links on the web:

http://www.shannanalbright.weebly.com/

http://www.shannanalbright.blogspot.com/

http://www.writeintheshadowz.blogspot.com/