Hi Everyone!
Here is a post that is long past due. You may have noticed that only silence has come from this blog for awhile. The good news? Carina Press is publishing my fantasy book, Altered Destiny, under my real name. The bad news? I just don't have time to give my full attention to two blogs, two (really four) emails, etc. Some of you know writing is just part of being a writer. Even editing is only part of being a writer. So, I've decided to turn my attention toward my fantasy books. These are not erotic books, but I think some of you may like them anyway. ; )
I can't express how wonderful you all have been, or how much your support has meant to me and what a bitter sweet decision this has been.
That's not to say I won't be on here occasionally. I have a guest lined up for you later this month. : )
So let me introduce myself to you. My name (why do I want to say Inigo Montoya?) is Shawna Thomas. Ah heck, that's not even true. My name is Shawna Guzman, but as I signed the publishing contract before I got married, I write under my maiden name, Shawna Thomas.
You can find me here or, every other Tuesday, here.
I'd love if you came by to say hi! I will miss you all, so please, don't be strangers!
Under the Covers with Shoshanna Evers
Please help me welcome Shoshanna Evers to Under the Covers with Lynne. First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why?
Shoshanna: Cotton. I’m a practical kind of gal. In the winter, I’d prefer flannel, but unfortunately I don’t own any flannel sheets. I’ll add that to my wish list!Cotton it is! I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on tonight
Shoshanna: As far as I’m concerned, calories *never* count. When I feel like eating something, I eat it! But if it’s midnight, I’ll probably be drinking lemonade and rummaging for leftovers in the fridge.
Oh, my husband just introduced me to lemonade. I love it. While I whip up a snack, let’s play a game. Truth or dare?
Shoshanna: Good question! I always used to pick truth when I was a kid. Then if the question was embarrassing I’d just make something up, LOL.
That’s Dare Truth or Not. ; ) Okay. Did you ever pick dare?
Shoshanna: Oh, I just remembered one! The dare was to kiss the pizza guy when he showed up with the pizza for the slumber party. I think I was about thirteen years old, and fortunately for the pizza guy, I backed out at the last minute.
Okay. Now truth. Tell us something not very many people know.
Shoshanna: Ack! Okay, now I’ll have to tell you something without making it up, since I just copped to doing that as a kid. Hmmm. I have a smoky quartz taped to the back of my cell phone to help absorb some of the electromagnetic energy from the phone.
What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning?
Shoshanna: This answer is not as exciting as it should be. In the summer I wear cotton shorts and a T-shirt, and socks. In the winter I wear fleece sweat pants, a long sleeve shirt, and a flannel shirt over that. And socks. My feet are always cold, no matter the weather.
It's not always the packaging. Sometimes it's the present. Besides. I can sympathize. I'm a sock girl too! Let’s get down to business. What surprised you the most about the publishing process?
Shoshanna: I think what surprised me most was that I ended up getting published long before I found a literary agent (Courtney Miller-Callihan of Sanford J Greenburger Associates, who I recently signed with, yay!). I also underestimated just how much time it takes before a book goes from my hands to the reader’s, LOL
Congratulations on your agent! Yup and you thought writing it was the hard part. ; ) Tell us about your newest release.
Shoshanna: My latest release is Chastity Belt, an erotic romance novella from Ellora’s Cave.
Georgia Hearn has found the perfect way to make easy cash—performing an interactive BDSM-flavored stage show at the exclusive Gentlemen’s Club. When handsome GC client Jonathan Syler goes up onstage and locks her into a chastity belt, it’s all supposed to be part of the fun. But Jonathan makes it clear he won’t be unlocking her anytime soon.
Now she’s at his mercy—and has no choice but to see him again, since he holds the key to her pleasure. Literally.
Reader’s Advisory: This book contains a hot girl-on-girl tease and denial scene and some F/F/M action.
Here’s Chastity Belt at Ellora’s Cave.
You have another new release too?
Shoshanna: I have a new release with The Wild Rose Press as well. Taste of Candy is an erotic romance novella with a touch of BDSM as well.
Taste of Candy Blurb:
Candace “Candy” Bryce can’t believe her luck when she wins a dinner date with Dave Roads, the lead singer of a hot new band. Not only is he a drop dead gorgeous rock star, but after she lets it slip that she's never been able to reach orgasm with a man, he seems bent on giving Candy what she needs. Who knew all it would take is a little "tie me up," a few toys and Dave's merciless desire for a Taste of Candy?
Here’s Taste of Candy at The Wild Rose Press “Wilder Roses” site:
And where can we find you?
Website: http://www.shoshannaevers.com/
Blog: http://www.thewriterschallenge.com/
Email shoshanna.evers@yahoo.com
and follow me on Twitter
and friend me on Facebook
About Shoshanna Evers:
Multi-published romance author Shoshanna Evers writes for Ellora's Cave, The Wild Rose Press, and (in December 2011) Cleis Press and Berkley/Jove. When she's not writing hot romance, she's a stay-at-home mom, a weekly advice columnist for a couple of local newspapers, and a registered nurse every other weekend. Her favorite thing to do is cuddle up with a good book...and her husband.
Shoshanna lives with her family and four dogs in a lakefront cottage in upstate New York. She welcomes emails from readers and writers.
Don't usually like to turn my blogs into rants
but today... where is that soapbox? Okay.
Well, apparently, I have a stalker.
You see, I spent all day Friday in court. My ex wanted his child support reduced. Again. Guess the last time we went in and they raised it... and he refused my offer to keep it as is (way under guidelines) (he instead decided instead to march out of the courtroom) didn't work for him. This time he came with proof that I'm hiding thousands and thousands of dollars... because you know, we writers make bank. (sarcasm intended) (my apologies to writers who really do make bank)
I have to say, I was curious about the proof. Below, please find proof that I signed a 40 thousand dollar contract with Samhain.
*Throwing confetti*
The Wild Rose Press offered a contract to Rendezvous, now known as Hooking Up, which is a short story close to my heart. I am so excited to work with my editor at TWRP again. In a word, she's awesome.
And *drum roll please* Samhain offerred a contract to Creative License a 40K novella that is also near and dear to my heart. The hero in Creative License is one of the yummiest I've ever written.
I'm a little nervous... this is a whole new ball game. But I'm taking one step at a time.
Some of you know it's been a long, dry period creatively for me and these contracts... well, they're like confirmation that I made the right choice.
I'll keep you all up to date
Um... did you catch that?
The scary part. He had a stack of papers 3 inches thick with blogs, tweets (?) and whatever all printed out and highlighted.
I never corrected him. Didn't really have the chance... but boy, I wonder if Carina press knows they owe me 104 K... as I just signed a full-length novel with them.
And just in case you're curious. After spending 2 hours explaining EVERY deposit for the last 12 months. His child support was lowered by $100.
Well, apparently, I have a stalker.
You see, I spent all day Friday in court. My ex wanted his child support reduced. Again. Guess the last time we went in and they raised it... and he refused my offer to keep it as is (way under guidelines) (he instead decided instead to march out of the courtroom) didn't work for him. This time he came with proof that I'm hiding thousands and thousands of dollars... because you know, we writers make bank. (sarcasm intended) (my apologies to writers who really do make bank)
I have to say, I was curious about the proof. Below, please find proof that I signed a 40 thousand dollar contract with Samhain.
*Throwing confetti*
The Wild Rose Press offered a contract to Rendezvous, now known as Hooking Up, which is a short story close to my heart. I am so excited to work with my editor at TWRP again. In a word, she's awesome.
And *drum roll please* Samhain offerred a contract to Creative License a 40K novella that is also near and dear to my heart. The hero in Creative License is one of the yummiest I've ever written.
I'm a little nervous... this is a whole new ball game. But I'm taking one step at a time.
Some of you know it's been a long, dry period creatively for me and these contracts... well, they're like confirmation that I made the right choice.
I'll keep you all up to date
Um... did you catch that?
The scary part. He had a stack of papers 3 inches thick with blogs, tweets (?) and whatever all printed out and highlighted.
I never corrected him. Didn't really have the chance... but boy, I wonder if Carina press knows they owe me 104 K... as I just signed a full-length novel with them.
And just in case you're curious. After spending 2 hours explaining EVERY deposit for the last 12 months. His child support was lowered by $100.
Under the Covers with Silver James
Silver, welcome to Under the Covers with Lynne. First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why? Hi, Lynne. 1000 count Egyptian cotton. Talk about luxurious! Better than silk, not as slick as satin, the cool and ease of cotton, and just as cuddly in a totally rich way as flannel.
I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. Thanks for inviting me over. *floofs pillows* *plops down* I’ve been looking forward to being under the covers with you. *grin and wink*
As I have you! Tonight, calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on? Sonic M&M Blast, Orville Redenbacher’s Movie Theater Popcorn, and Diet Coke. And maybe some Lay’s Potato Chips and Dean’s Onion Dip. Or lobster bites. *grin*
Oh, that sounds divine. You are a woman who knows how to live. Pass the popcorn, please. Okay. Truth or dare? Dare. I never could resist one.
Oooh, and a woman who lives on the edge. That’s nice to know. What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? Does playing Lady Godiva on a white horse in the middle of fraternity row count?
It does! How daring are you? What are you usually wearing in the middle of the night? Cotton sleep pants and a tank top. Wait. That’s usually what I’m wearing at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, too!
What is the best pick-up line someone has ever tried on you? Did it work? Aw heck. I’ve been married for almost 30 years. My memory doesn’t go back far enough to remember pickup lines. *laugh* And back in my dating days, they were pretty darn lame, like “What’s your sign?” *blink* Do people even pay attention to their astrological signs any more?
Well, I know I’m a Virgo. ; ) I love celebrating my birthday in September. What is your favorite season? Autumn. Definitely. Not too hot. Not too humid. Not too cold. Like Goldilocks and the Baby Bear’s bed, it’s just right.
I agree. If you could het around in any car, which would it be? I’d love to own a 1969 Chevy Camaro Indy 500 Pace Car. I’ve loved that car since I first got my driver’s license. I have mentioned that I’m older than dirt, right? In the alternative, I’m driving a Toyota Highlander 4-wheel drive that I love like whoah! His name is Drover and his GPS system speaks with an Aussie accent. Wait? Who? Hugh Jackman you say? Naw…. *wink*
LOL I never met anyone else who named his or her cars. My first car was Lady Strange. Hugh Jackman huh? Who is your favorite actor? Considering what I just said above, you probably think I’m going to say Hugh. While he is A favorite, I’m not sure he’s THE favorite. In fact, I’m not sure I have one. Sean Connery, Sam Elliott, Liam Neeson all come to mind, too. And John Wayne. I can honestly say I’ve seen every last one of his movies.
That’s an impressive list. Who is your favorite actress? I have to go old school here, too. And I have three: Maureen O’Hara, Lauren Bacall, and Katherine Hepburn. They just don’t make ladies on screen like these anymore, at least as far as I’m concerned. There are some talented actresses these days, but those three ladies light up the screen for me.
What is a movie you could watch over and over? LAST OF THE MOHICANS with Daniel Day Lewis. Oh, be still my heart! I actually wore out the VHS version and the cassette of the soundtrack. Yay for DVDs and CDs!
LOL Okay, doll. What is your favorite alcoholic drink? *hums* “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off”* I’m a margarita girl all the way!
Margaritas it is. Who is your favorite character in your novels? This is really hard because I enjoy getting to know each and every character. But…truth be told, my favorite character is one who hasn’t seen print yet. Her book is in my agent’s hands and it’s out with an editor so I have hopes Sade (pronounced Say-dee) will make her debut sooner than later. Of course, she managed to upset everyone when she made her debutante debut, back in the day. She wore black and her escort was her foster brother, Caleb--who just happens to be a werewolf. All grown up now, Sade’s an FBI agent with some serious commitment issues.
That sounds good! What’s your typical writing day like? I write almost every day so it’s pretty boring. Coffee, breakfast, open Word .doc and start writing. If I get stuck in a scene, I’ll find Iffy’s scissors and let her play for awhile. When Iffy’s “on”, she’s the best Muse in the world. When she’s feeling ornery, she’s a pain in the patoot. I’ll write all morning, break for lunch and deal with on-line social networking, email, and visiting with friends, my CP, and my beta readers by IM. I’ll also research anything that needs it. I also break for errands. Housecleaning and laundry is reserved for those times when writer’s block is so severe I’d rather clean toilets than write!
Sounds like a full schedule. If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be? I’ve been lucky. I’ve shared a meal or at least coffee and/or drinks with some amazing writers—Roxanne St. Claire, Allison Brennan, Karin Tabke, Jennifer Lyon, Julie Leto, Leslie Kelly, Kate Carlisle, Sharon Sala, Merline Lovelace, Gena Showalter. I’ve met Nora Roberts, though only briefly. Hrmm… Maybe Jayne Ann Krentz? She’s clever and entertaining plus she has an amazing career.
Least favorite? Marketing. I love meeting people and visiting and talking books, characters, and plots (mine and other authors’ books) but having to “sell” my books is hard. I’d much rather hide in my office and let the stories flow from my imagination to my keyboard—provided Iffy, my Muse, doesn’t find scissors and start running!
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? Wow. It depends on the season. Summer? I want to be in the mountains somewhere. I want cool days, cold nights, and no AC. Winter? I want to be where it’s warm. I love snow if I’m looking out the window and never have to get out, but that never happens. A castle in Ireland or Scotland would be cool, if I won the lottery and could afford it. Or a little cottage on a private beach, since I’m dreaming. Since I’m not a millionaire, that’s all I can do. *grin*
Betrayed former society wife Kelly Kincaid only wants to make things right. Paying off her ex-husband’s debt of honor is tough when a minimum-wage job back in her hometown is the only one she can find. Could the answer to her problems be right in front of her?
The moment pub owner Michael Doogan sees Summerville High School’s former golden girl at the train station, he loses his heart. Again. He’d give Kelly Kincaid the world on a platter, but the stubborn woman is intent on going her way alone. A threat to her safety provides him the incentive to stand up for what he wants, but will he have the patience to win her love?
Do you have anything in the works? I’m always working on the next project. I have two novels out on submission but no contracts in hand—which makes me a very sad writer. I have one more WIP to get drafted and then I can return to the third novel in my Tir Nan Óg trilogy. FAERIE FATE and FAERIE FIRE are the first two books. I’ll wrap it up with FAERIE FOOL, hopefully by the end of the year. My editor at Wild Rose Press is hoping FOOL is finished much sooner!
Contracts are coming, I’m sure! Where can we find you? I’m always hanging around my website, Penumbra: http://www.silverjames.com/ And you can find me on twitter where I’m @SilverJames_ (don’t forget that little _. It’s important! *grin*)
A special Under the Covers with N.L. Gervasio
First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why?
*shudders* I hate silk. It makes my skin feel weird. I'd have to go with cotton. Cotton breathes. Do you slide on satin sheets? That might be fun!
Oh yes, you slide all over the place on satin sheets. And yes, it can be fun. But for us, cool high thread count cotton. I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. Okay… knowing you, we’ll be up all night. Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight? I just ate Circus Animals cookies. Does that count? Love those!
Love those. Pink or white? LOL. Okay, both. Let’s play a game. Truth or dare?Let's go with Truth! I'd rather not discuss my daring follies.
Oh come on, your daring follies are one of the many things that make you so interesting. But okay, we’ll keep it tame. For now. Tell us something not very many people know. Oh, that's tough. My life is like an open book, if one reads my blog or follows me on Twitter. Something not commonly known about me is that I am fascinated by ancient history, and I love archaeology and anthropology. So much so that it finds its way into most of my stories, which you'll be seeing within the next year.
Can’t wait! You look very comfy. What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning? Since that's near the end of the day for me, I still have on my jeans, a tank, maybe a lightweight hoodie.
Practical and comfortable. I like that. I know romance isn’t your only genre, but there is plenty of it in Nemesis. If you could take a date anywhere in the world, where would it be? You do realize I haven't dated in like ten years, right? *sigh* Okay, I'd have to say Petra. I'm an archaeology and anthropology geek, and that's one place I'd really like to see. It's in Jordan. It would help if my date was into that kind of stuff too. Hey, it could be romantic!
Are you kidding? Can you imagine the sunsets, the sunrises? The heat would necessitate many showers… you know I have a thing for wet men. No, trust me. Petra sounds very romantic. Hot in more ways than one!
Do you like the heat? What’s your favorite season? Fall. Hallowe'en is my favorite holiday.
I see. If you could have any car, which would it be? A BMW 765 Li – it has to be imported because they don't sell that one here.
LOL Better sell some books. Who is your favorite actor? Living or dead? Dead would be Vincent Price. Living would be Vin Diesel for reasons known only to me. *drools* that's not a reason.
Oh I think it is. Who is your favorite actress? Cate Blanchett
What is a movie you could watch over and over? Galaxy Quest. That's the first one that came to mind, but there are several. I'm such a geek.
Me too! LOL At least I love that movie A soon as the interview is over. Let’s watch it! What is your favorite alcoholic drink? White Russian
Yum. That drink always reminds me of my sister. I am one of those annoying, can I have a sip people. Hey, that way I get to try a lot of drinks. ; ) White Russian is my sister’s favorite. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? Italy, because that is where my grandfather was from, and it's beautiful. I'd like to get back the family vineyard, if possible.
I hope you don’t mind visitors. I mean what better place to go for inspiration? And good wine. ; ) Let’s get down to business. Who is your favorite character in your novels? Shawn, my vampire. You'll see him again soon, but if you can't wait that long, he can be found on his blog: Gemini Rising (http://delaurenttwins.wordpress.com/)
I've met him and I can see why he's your favorite. What’s your typical writing day like? Writing or editing, they're both pretty much the same. I work late at night, mostly because I'm nocturnal, but partly because it's when everyone's asleep and I can actually get work done without being disturbed. Essentially, I just write until I'm tired enough to fall asleep. That's one of the advantages to not having children.
If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be? Patricia Briggs! I love her Mercy Thompson series.
You and me both! What is your favorite part of being a romance writer? This is only the second romance (lacking paranormal) book I've ever written, so it's kind of like trying on new shoes. Ooh! We love shoes, don't we? I'm such a shoe whore. I just love falling into the worlds I create, regardless of whether or not it's romance or paranormal or horror. Yes, I write that too.
You know I adore shoes! I love the comparison. What’s your least favorite? Editing new plots in after having written the damn thing. Yes, I had to do that with this book and it damn near screwed everything up!
Do you have anything in the works? I have several things in the works, some of which is paranormal, and some of which doesn't include the hot scenes like those in Nemesis. I'll be revamping (pun intended) my Prophecy series, beginning with The Vampyre Prophecy, out this fall.
Where can we find you?
My blog: http://jinxiesworld.wordpress.com/ (Jinxie's World)
Other blog: http://nlgervasio.wordpress.com/ (Unclouded Perspicacity)
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Jinxie_G
Zombie Survival Crew: http://zombiesurvivalcrew.com/
Running Ink Press: http://www.runninginkpress.com/
Under the covers with Olivia Ventura
Cotton. But not any old cotton. It has to have a really high thread count, so it’s super soft with that gorgeous sheen…you know what I mean. The kind of cotton that could buy groceries for a month
Oh yeah… *happy sigh* Cotton it is. I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. It’s a slumber party! We’ll be up all hours of the night. Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight?
Why are we waiting until midnight? Let’s see, we’ll start with the ice-cream. I couldn’t choose just one flavor, of course, so we have about a half-dozen tubs. And chocolate. Cinnamon rolls, assorted pastries. Tim Tams—ever tried them? Something we Aussies proudly lay claim to.
Good question. Let’s start now. I’ll try some of those Tim Tams… never had em. ; ) Truth or dare?
Truth. I’m a big old coward.
Tell us something not very many people know.
Ooooh boy, this is tough. I’m not a good secret-keeper because I like to talk. A lot. Ummmm, when I was a kid I used to eat sugar directly from the bowl. And sometimes I relapse.
When I was little, I used to drip coffee into the sugar bowl, let it harden and eat it like candy. What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning?
In winter, flannel pjs. I get cold, and there’s no one to warm me up!
Then we need to get you out there! What would you consider a romantic date?
No adventure outings, please! I’m happy with a nice quiet restaurant where the food is REALLY good. And the dessert is orgasmic. Are you seeing a trend here?
It also helps if the company is good.
There is nothing wrong, and plenty right, with orgasmic dessert. What is the best pick-up line someone has ever tried on you? Did it work?
This one is pretty visual, so hopefully I can get the image across.
Guy walks up and stands to my right.
“Did you know that the distance from here (touches his right shoulder) to here (touches his left shoulder) is the same as the distance from here (touches his left shoulder) to here?” (suddenly his hand is on my left shoulder. Does this mean…? yes, his arm is around me.)
It didn’t work, mainly because he had terrible B.O. Lifting his arm was a mistake.
LOL. I love it! What is your favorite season?
Summer. I hate being cold. And I love the long days. And I hate being cold.
I think I do spot a trend here. ; ) What is a movie you could watch over and over?
The Princess Bride. And believe me, I have. How can anyone resist True Love?
But what the bananas was Mr. Goldman thinking naming her Buttercup? Bleh.
As you wish. I love the Princess Bride too. Let’s watch it after the interview. What is your favorite alcoholic drink?
Daiquiri. Strawberry is the best, but I’ll take anything. And then of course there’s the Pina Colada, the Fruit Tingle, and a perennial favorite, Sex on the Beach, which my mother for many years thought was called ‘Sitting on the Beach.’ We’re not sure why.
Maybe she didn’t want to order SEX on the beach. ; ) I’ve been craving a Pina Colada. I’ll mix some up.
How would you describe your writing style?
Rollicking . I tend to run on a bit. I like to write fun stories, and sometimes fun means getting sidetracked.
LOL And sidetracked isn’t always a bad thing. If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be?
Nora Roberts. It wouldn’t even have to be one-on-one, I’d be happy to just sit there and listen to her talk to someone else. I could absorb her wisdom silently. And silence for me is not common.
Seriously, the woman is amazingly disciplined to be so prolific. Discipline is my main weakness—I don’t have any.
Nora has lessons for us all. I agree. What is your favorite part of being a romance writer?
Happy endings. I can torture my characters as much as I like, but in the end I leave them happy.
I’m a sucker for HEA too. Least favorite part?
Actually sitting down to write. The words are there, but for some reason it’s so hard to type them out. I’m the world’s best procrastinator.
Tell us about your newest release.
MISS FIX-IT stars Veronica (always Vee, never Ronnie) an outgoing, girly, funky and fashionable woman. She has regular manicures, fabulous clothes, a shoe fetish, and a love affair with the color pink. And she’s a handyman—woman—person—I always get stuck with this word!
She’s on a job when her client’s husband gets frisky, and because Vee is soooo not into adultery, she threatens him with her (pink) hammer to make him back off. Next thing you know, she’s at the local police station, being questioned about the ‘attempted assault’.
Her questioner, sexy detective Cole Samuels, isn’t sure what to make of her, especially when she demands her right to a room with one-way glass. There are sparks between them from the beginning, just not necessarily romantic ones! Still, things heat up pretty quickly, and they’re well and truly into each other when the threatening notes start coming…
Coming soon is INTER-OFFICE RELATIONS, an erotic novella written under Louisa Masters and published by The Wild Rose Press. Jeannie quits her job and decides to leave with a bang—literally. She seduces her colleague Tim in one of the conference rooms, secure in the knowledge that she’ll never have to see him again. Then suddenly she’s offered a management role and decides to stay. But she’ll make it clear to Tim that their relationship is going to be strictly professional. Tim disagrees, and tries to change her mind in one of the most interesting places…
They both sound excellent! Do you have anything else in the works?
A few projects. One Night in a Bar, an erotic novella by Louisa Masters, is being shopped around at the moment. I’m working on a full-length contemporary, as yet unnamed, about a football player and a cleaner/children’s storyteller. Nathan and Jess are fast becoming my favorite characters ever. And I have another erotic novella half done, starring a ‘professional companion’.
Thank you so much Olivia! Now I’ll get on those Pina Coladas and but Princess Bride in the DVD player! You make the snacks.
Learn more about Olivia and her work:
http://www.oliviaventura.net/
http://www.louisamasters.com/
Twitter: @OliviaLVentura
Under the Covers with Rachel Leigh
Hi Rachel, welcome to Under the Covers with Lynne. First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why?
Cotton – cool, fresh, clean. If I want to slide off the bed with someone and onto the floor, I want it to be my choice and not the sheets!
LOL I agree and on a scorching night like tonight, cotton feels nice. I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. It’s a slumber party so calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight?
Chips and a salsa dip, yum!
One of my favorites. Let’s start off with a little game. Truth or dare?
Truth – I am a very honest person, but dares scare the life out of me. Sometimes ; )
Okay. Tell us something not many people know.
Sex in a Mini Cooper is highly recommended! (If you’re under the age of twenty-five, lol!)
Oh my! That sounds like an interesting story. You look very nice tonight. What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning?
Shorts and a vest top – can’t do the naked sleep thing, and I have no idea why…
If you could take a date anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I am desperate to go to the Caribbean, I would love to see the Maldives, the Seychelles, Jamaica…
Summer all year long. Is summer your your favorite season?
Yes. I love the feel of the sun on my skin, or drinking a chilled glass of wine on the decking watching the sky turn pink at sunset. Heaven!
That does sound wonderful and relaxing. Here summer gets a little too hot for my liking. Let’s get down to business. How would you describe your writing style?
Fun, sexy, and great escapist fantasy
I like that! What surprised you the most about the publishing process?
The amount of time you can spend on promotion if you aren’t careful! I love interviews like this one; I love visiting other people’s blogs and generally talking with my readers and other writers. The only trouble is, you can spend so much time doing that, you haven’t anything written to actually get published. It’s a real case of reining myself in from time to time!
I hear you. When I’m promoting, I’m usually not writing. Catch 22. Who is your favorite character in your novels?
I’ve only had one erotic romance novella published so far but it is the heroine in my upcoming release Coming Back who is my favorite. Keep checking my website for a release date. Kelly is British and completely negates that stereotypical, stiff upper lip the world seems to think we have – this girl really doesn’t mind what she does or when she does it ; )
Love those characters! What’s your typical writing day like?
Hmm…typical writing day, now that would be nice! I work part-time and have two young kids so I write as much as possible once everyone else is happy and I know I won’t be bothered for at least half an hour. I write in stints around everything else…except maybe housework which comes in as a very low priority.
I think that would be true for most writers. ; ) If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be?
Margaret Mitchell – I would love to ask her how Gone With The Wind came to be. It is such a huge, emotional rollercoaster epic of a novel that I wonder if she even had any idea how big a story it would become. I’d want to know if she sees Rhett, Scarlet, Ashley and all the other characters as we do or as they were portrayed in the movie. Lots of lots of questions!
And yes, it’s my favorite book of all time.
Big grin. I loved Gone with the Wind so much that I couldn’t just leave it. My first attempt at writing anything was a sequel because I couldn’t stand it wasn’t an HEA. What is your favorite part of being a romance writer?
That I can create my own characters and worlds whenever I want to – writing is a compulsion to me and I love it all. If I could write all day, every day I would be one happy and fulfilled person.
Least favorite?
Getting myself out there and publicly talking about my writing. I am a hugely shy person when I first meet people and to go out and talk about my work, especially erotic romance is very difficult but it’s something all writers need to do if they want to succeed.
My least favorite question is “What is your book about?” I freeze like a deer in the headlights. Doesn’t make sense. I love the book, love the characters…. You’re right. Us shy people need to step up and be bold. So that said. LOL.Tell us about your newest release.
Explicitly English is my first erotic romance novella and available now from The Wild Rose Press – it has received some great 4 star reviews which is fantastic! Here’s the blurb:
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Laura Markham needs to forget - just for awhile. Be someone else for change - live as her parents will never have the chance to. And for Laura, that means leaving the City for the English countryside and doing just what the hell she feels like…wherever she feels like doing it…
British stockbroker, Stephen Cambridge knows by going home to his country retreat two days early, he's likely to surprise his contracted interior designer. And when he finds out she's the woman who performed the solo masterbation show for him on the inward bound journey, Stephen will do anything to further convince her to miss the outward bound train and stay with him forever…
Oh.. that sounds hot.... Do you have anything new in the works?
My next release is called Coming Back and I am waiting on pins for a release date from my editor. She is working on the cover art as we speak so I hope it will be available to download by the fall. Here’s the blurb as a teaser…
Kelly Hampton loved once...and lost. After two years of looking for Sean McKenzie in other men--and failing miserably--she takes a vow of celibacy. No sex until she finds love. Then Sean strolls back into her bar, reigniting old flames. No one has come close to understanding or satisfying her like he did. Her body burns for the passion they once shared, but her heart still remembers the pain.
Sean escaped Jessop Hill and his father's fists in the middle of the night without a word--even to his love, Kelly--to protect his battered mother, but he never forgot the explosively erotic relationship he left behind. Now his father is dead and Sean is back for the only woman he's ever wanted. Their reunion is full of fire – but can sexual attraction and noble intentions overcome years of heartache or will Kelly walk away to protect her heart this time.
I love reunion stories! Where can we find you?
http://www.rachelleigh.co.uk/
http://www.rachelleighromance.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Leigh/266044849655
Cotton – cool, fresh, clean. If I want to slide off the bed with someone and onto the floor, I want it to be my choice and not the sheets!
LOL I agree and on a scorching night like tonight, cotton feels nice. I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. It’s a slumber party so calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight?
Chips and a salsa dip, yum!
One of my favorites. Let’s start off with a little game. Truth or dare?
Truth – I am a very honest person, but dares scare the life out of me. Sometimes ; )
Okay. Tell us something not many people know.
Sex in a Mini Cooper is highly recommended! (If you’re under the age of twenty-five, lol!)
Oh my! That sounds like an interesting story. You look very nice tonight. What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning?
Shorts and a vest top – can’t do the naked sleep thing, and I have no idea why…
If you could take a date anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I am desperate to go to the Caribbean, I would love to see the Maldives, the Seychelles, Jamaica…
Summer all year long. Is summer your your favorite season?
Yes. I love the feel of the sun on my skin, or drinking a chilled glass of wine on the decking watching the sky turn pink at sunset. Heaven!
That does sound wonderful and relaxing. Here summer gets a little too hot for my liking. Let’s get down to business. How would you describe your writing style?
Fun, sexy, and great escapist fantasy
I like that! What surprised you the most about the publishing process?
The amount of time you can spend on promotion if you aren’t careful! I love interviews like this one; I love visiting other people’s blogs and generally talking with my readers and other writers. The only trouble is, you can spend so much time doing that, you haven’t anything written to actually get published. It’s a real case of reining myself in from time to time!
I hear you. When I’m promoting, I’m usually not writing. Catch 22. Who is your favorite character in your novels?
I’ve only had one erotic romance novella published so far but it is the heroine in my upcoming release Coming Back who is my favorite. Keep checking my website for a release date. Kelly is British and completely negates that stereotypical, stiff upper lip the world seems to think we have – this girl really doesn’t mind what she does or when she does it ; )
Love those characters! What’s your typical writing day like?
Hmm…typical writing day, now that would be nice! I work part-time and have two young kids so I write as much as possible once everyone else is happy and I know I won’t be bothered for at least half an hour. I write in stints around everything else…except maybe housework which comes in as a very low priority.
I think that would be true for most writers. ; ) If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be?
Margaret Mitchell – I would love to ask her how Gone With The Wind came to be. It is such a huge, emotional rollercoaster epic of a novel that I wonder if she even had any idea how big a story it would become. I’d want to know if she sees Rhett, Scarlet, Ashley and all the other characters as we do or as they were portrayed in the movie. Lots of lots of questions!
And yes, it’s my favorite book of all time.
Big grin. I loved Gone with the Wind so much that I couldn’t just leave it. My first attempt at writing anything was a sequel because I couldn’t stand it wasn’t an HEA. What is your favorite part of being a romance writer?
That I can create my own characters and worlds whenever I want to – writing is a compulsion to me and I love it all. If I could write all day, every day I would be one happy and fulfilled person.
Least favorite?
Getting myself out there and publicly talking about my writing. I am a hugely shy person when I first meet people and to go out and talk about my work, especially erotic romance is very difficult but it’s something all writers need to do if they want to succeed.
My least favorite question is “What is your book about?” I freeze like a deer in the headlights. Doesn’t make sense. I love the book, love the characters…. You’re right. Us shy people need to step up and be bold. So that said. LOL.Tell us about your newest release.
Explicitly English is my first erotic romance novella and available now from The Wild Rose Press – it has received some great 4 star reviews which is fantastic! Here’s the blurb:
British stockbroker, Stephen Cambridge knows by going home to his country retreat two days early, he's likely to surprise his contracted interior designer. And when he finds out she's the woman who performed the solo masterbation show for him on the inward bound journey, Stephen will do anything to further convince her to miss the outward bound train and stay with him forever…
Oh.. that sounds hot.... Do you have anything new in the works?
My next release is called Coming Back and I am waiting on pins for a release date from my editor. She is working on the cover art as we speak so I hope it will be available to download by the fall. Here’s the blurb as a teaser…
Kelly Hampton loved once...and lost. After two years of looking for Sean McKenzie in other men--and failing miserably--she takes a vow of celibacy. No sex until she finds love. Then Sean strolls back into her bar, reigniting old flames. No one has come close to understanding or satisfying her like he did. Her body burns for the passion they once shared, but her heart still remembers the pain.
Sean escaped Jessop Hill and his father's fists in the middle of the night without a word--even to his love, Kelly--to protect his battered mother, but he never forgot the explosively erotic relationship he left behind. Now his father is dead and Sean is back for the only woman he's ever wanted. Their reunion is full of fire – but can sexual attraction and noble intentions overcome years of heartache or will Kelly walk away to protect her heart this time.
I love reunion stories! Where can we find you?
http://www.rachelleigh.co.uk/
http://www.rachelleighromance.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-Leigh/266044849655
Under the Covers with Tarah Scott
Please help me welcome Tarah Scott to Under the Covers with Lynne. I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable.
First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why? Cotton in summer, flannel in winter. I hate being cold. I hate being hot. Well, I hate being hot alone!
Good point! It’s a slumber party! Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight? No calories! Be still my heart. Chocolate éclairs, almond rocha, and cheesecake—for starters. Heh heh.
Oh yum! That sounds good! When playing truth or dare, would you pick truth or dare? Probably truth. ROFL. I’m much less afraid of anything I’d have to say than I am of a dare I’d have to act on.
Ok, truth. Tell us something not very many people know. When I was a teenager, I often had two dates in one night. My mother used to tell me I’d get caught, but I never did.
That’s pretty daring for someone who doesn’t like dares. You like to live dangerously. ; ) What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I’d say the most daring thing I’ve ever done was stand up to a member of the Bandito biker clan. I grew up in Southern Texas and was 17 years old when my sister and I went to Padre Island with friends. One of the guys we were with mouthed off to the biker and he pistol whipped our friend. Everyone scattered, except my sister and I. Stupid, stupid, stupid.
Wow! That’s pretty scary. Not a very good end to a date. What would you consider a romantic date? I love jazz clubs and long, leisurely dinners.
Long leisurely dinners are awesome. If you could take a date anywhere in the world, where would it be? The Florida Keyes. That part of the world is so beautiful.
I’ve never been there. What is the best pick-up line someone has ever tried on you? Did it work? ROFL. OMG, I’m not sure I can remember that far back. A few years back a guy asked if I was a model. I nearly died laughing. I think I hurt his feelings. He muttered under his breath “I was serious.” No, sadly, it still didn’t work. I just didn’t believe him, but I appreciated the sincere effort.
LOL Maybe he did think you were a model! What are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning? HA!! Clothes, sadly. Sweats in winter. Summer; men’s boxers and a tank top. (Goes back to not liking being cold or hot. Heh heh.)
What is your favorite season? I really enjoy the change of seasons a great deal. If winter goes on too long, I start getting antsy.
Who is your favorite actor? Oh! I have quite a few. John Travolta (I know, I’m so old.) Nicholas Cage, and Antonio Banderas. Who doesn’t like Antonio Banderas?
Who wouldn't love that accent? Who is your favorite actress? Reece Witherspoon is tops with me.
What is a movie you could watch over and over? It’s a Wonderful Life
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? The Florida Keyes. The weather is perfect—except during hurricane season, and I’ll be Europe then. Heh heh.
Let’s get down to business. How would you describe your writing style? Gosh, this is your toughest question yet. Edgy, colorful, vivid. I love irony and dark humor.
Who is your favorite character in your novels? This is a toughie. My favorite characters tend to be the one I’m working on at the time. I do have a soft spot for the first hero I wrote in My Highland Love, Marcus MacGregor, clan leader and Marquess. He’s about as sexy as a man gets.
If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be? Dead: Charles Dickens. Alive: Steven King. Strange combination. Huh?
Definately interesting. ; ) What is your favorite part of being a romance writer? Being a romance writer doesn’t limit an author to one genre. As long as you’re writing romance, you can write suspense, historical, paranormal…the list is endless.
Least favorite? Too many choices of things to write about!
LOL That’s not a bad thing! Tell us about your newest release. I have a recent release with The Wild Rose Press, a short collaboration with the talented KyAnn Waters. Double Bang! Heh heh. The title alone sums up the story. Here’s a little teaser
Sara Martin has a problem. And it’s not the attraction she has for her co-worker Devon Curran…or the lust she feels for her sexy neighbor, Rigg. Yes, those are problems. But she has bigger issues. There’s been a security breach in the impenetrable computer system at work. Suddenly Devon doesn’t look happy. And that is a gun in his pocket!
Devon is working undercover…and Sara is about to blow his case. He’d rather she blow him. She’s as smart as she is beautiful. But he’s lied to protect her. What will she do when she discovers he works with a partner? Tonight, they are going to keep her close…very close…in their protective custody.
That sounds wonderful! Any recent sales we can look forward to in the near future? Oh yes! I made a recent sale to Total E-Bound, the erotic Scottish Medieval, A Knight of Passion. Lady Riana Ellis will risk the fires of hell for those she loves. Can she let a man do the same for her?
Do you have anything in the works? I’m working on a paranormal/time travel that takes place in Scotland. My heroine, a Mississippi Deputy Sheriff, goes to Scotland to prove her former best friend murdered her husband. Little does my heroine know her friend lured her there to free a Scottish lord from an ancient spell.
Where can we find you? http://www.tarahscott.com/
Let me introduce you to
one of my books, HOOKING UP. Between getting the word out about CREATIVE LICENSE and planning for the wedding. This book got lost in the promo wheels. Maybe under the wheels...I don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for the underdog and really, I know I'm tooting my own horn, but this book is sexy, sweet and will just make you feel good after you read it! I wouldn't lead you astray!
So without further ado:
Trisha is tired of tame, tired of predictable. After years of playing the supporting role, she longs for one night of unrestrained sensuality, a night of passion to reawaken the woman she once was. Can she step out of her comfort zone and into the arms of a stranger for a single taste of erotic abandon?
Hooking Up available at The Wilder Rose Press
Under the Covers with Bianca Swan
Bianca Swan is probably one of the most patient and kind writers I’ve met in quite a while. Recently, she raked me over my own coals. Today I get the chance to return the favor. Gently of course. ; )
Welcome to Under the Covers with Lynne. First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why? Silk. I love the way it feels against the skin, so well, silky and cool.
Silk it is! I’ll scoot over *pats mattress* Let’s get comfortable. It’s a slumber party! Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight? Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. There would also be Brie, butter and crackers and some mini-quiches.Well, Bianca, you know how to plan a menu. That sounds perfect! When playing truth or dare, would you pick truth or dare? Dare. I like taking chances.
So what’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done? I’d blush to disclose. So I’ll tell the truth.
That’s cheating but okay. Tell us something not very many people know. Not many people who know the real me know that I write erotica as well as paranormal romance. A true secret is that I dream of meeting a tall, blond, handsome pianist with blue eyes. Know anyone like that?
We’re comfy now but what are you usually wearing at three o’clock in the morning? Usually at 3 AM, I’m asleep—unless my muse wakes me up to write—and I’d only be wearing (ahem) panties. If I were awake writing, I’d be wrapped in a white cotton, waffle-print robe with slippers. I have marble floors and they can be a bit chilly.
How would you describe your writing style? Lush, I suppose. If I’m not careful, I can get lost in purple prose. I also very much like to write in first person. As to writing method, I’m a pantster. I usually start with one character demanding that I tell his story, most often the hero, as I tend to write better heroes than heroines.
Would it surprise you that I’m pretty sure not one of my past guests has been, or admitted to being, a plotter. Maybe romance writers are free spirits who fly on the winds of imagination. (I can purple prose when I’m not careful too!) _What surprised you the most about the publishing process? The length of the rocky road. Perserverence lost its meaning as I trudged through rejections. The journey seemed all uphill, both ways. When I made my first sale, I could scarcely believe it. The constant rejections wear on confidence in our writing. I wonder if other writers are as insecure about the words they put to paper as I am. I’m a closet perfectionist!
Amen! I have to close that closet door or I won’t write a thing. I live by the axiom you can’t edit a blank page.
Who is your favorite character in your novels? The hero in Celestial Sin, my recent release from The Wild Rose Press, Wilder Catalog. Cam-ael is an angel of the Order of the Powers. The Powers were the first angels created and patrol the perilous border between First and Second Heavens, resisting the efforts of Demons to take control of the World. He is very honest and brave but innocent of worldly pleasures—which is his downfall.
And it's no wonder. Here's her inspiration for the hero of Celestial Sin.
If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be? Oscar Wilde. I love his wit and humor. Both quotes in my signature blocks are Wilde. And he was such an interesting and controversial person. I would also love to have lunch with George Sand (Chopin’s lady love) and the Duke of Windsor (Edward VIII who abdicated to marry the woman he loved). I’m reading his memoirs at the moment.
You are a romantic! What is your favorite part of being a romance writer? Being able to weave romance into every love story.
Least favorite? The MUST that there be conflict between the hero and heroine. I know I wouldn’t have a story without it, but sometimes they just really love each other from the beginning.
Gotta torture them a little. Part of the jog. ; ) What would you consider a romantic date? Dinner by the ocean, a walk along the beach then my date would play piano for me, preferably Claire de Lune.
What is the best pick-up line someone has ever tried on you? Did it work? At the reenactment of the Battle of Worcester (English Civil War) in Staunton, VA, an English voice asked, “Are you a Cavalier or a Roundhead?” It worked!
You’ve given us a taste, please tell us more about your newest release. Celestial Sin is a story I’ve wanted to write for sometime. About 10 years ago, I started toying with the idea of writing a book about the Grigori, the angels who fell in love with mortal women and sired the Nephilim. I did write a book about Azazel, one of the leaders of the Grigori, but it hasn’t yet sold, and there are now many stories about the Grigori and the Nephilim. In Celestial Sin, the hero hasn’t yet fallen when he meets the heroine, and he must deal with temptation as well as the knowledge of the consequences should he succumb to her charms.
Here is the blurb: Early on Essie McBane set her standards high and waited for true love. She never expected the answer to her prayer to literally fall from heaven in the shape of a warrior angel with chestnut curls and a heavenly body. As much as she'd love to teach the divine creature a thing or two about sex and lust, can she be responsible for leading him into temptation?
Sinfully handsome Cam-ael, an angel , is wounded in the second war between heaven and hell and plummets into Essie’s arms. But Cam knows he must return eventually, no matter how much he likes the material pleasures of earth. Not to mention those he's found with Essie. But when a demon locates his hiding place and his mortal feelings for Essie, will Cam learn the true meaning of the word sacrifice?
Whoa, Essie, he’s an angel and a lot younger than you.
His feathers rustled as he unbuckled the fastenings under his arms and bent to place the armor on the floor. What did his ass, hidden by sleek white wings, look like? My, my, he was just too much for a girl to resist. She gave in to temptation, stroked the shiny, soft feathers. He backed into the caress, and a long sigh escaped him.
“That feels incredible.” His voice came husky, and butterflies hatched in her stomach.
It had been a long time since she’d felt belly tugs or the fire of passion licking through her, but when she touched him, the world as she’d known it ceased to exist. He untied the leather tunic and stepped out of it. His wings drooped. He swayed on his feet. She felt guilty as hell, lusting after an angel too weak to stand.
Shakily, he turned to face her. Ginger hair spattered his chest, drew a thin line down his stomach, disappearing in the V-neck of the robe he wore beneath his armor. The loose shirt was thigh-length. The fabric appeared to be linen but with a subtle sheen.
“I’m afraid I can’t remove this.” He lifted a fold of the toga, giving her a tempting glimpse of his upper thigh, very near his cock. “I’m wearing nothing beneath.”
Do you have anything in the works? I’m working on another fallen angel story, this one called I, Lucifer, told in first person from his POV.
What is your favorite season? Spring. Summers in Houston are far too hot and humid. I’m a sports car nut and love to drive top down, so Spring it is.
A sports car nut? If you could have any car, which would it be? An Aston Martin Vanquish S convertible – black on black!
Classy! Who is your favorite actor? Johnny Depp, I guess.
You guess? o_O Sorry. Johnny Depp fan. ; ) Who is your favorite actress? Michelle Pfeiffer
What is a movie you could watch over and over? Tombstone, The Phantom of the Opera and The Libertine
Let's put the Libertine on while I make us a drink. What is your favorite alcoholic drink? Either a Cosmopolitan or Bombay Sapphire gin and tonic.
Last question. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? I’d love to live on The Battery in Charleston, South Carolina. I love the history of Charleston and the beautiful houses that face the Atlantic on The Battery. So buy LOTS of books. The price tag is in the millions.
You heard her! Go check out Bianca’s books and help a writer live her dream. : )
Where can we find you? My blog or my web site. You can follow Linda Nightingale (the real me!) on Facebook, MySpace or on Twitter. I also blog frequently at The Pink Fuzzy Slippers Writers.
Thank you so much for guesting today, Bianca!
Under the Covers with Mimi Barbour
Please help me welcome Mimi Barbour to Under the Covers!
First important question. Silk, satin, cotton, flannel. What is your sheet of choice and why?
Since I’m a romance writer, I’d love to say satin—but—one time I bought some just to try them and see how they worked, and my husband slid off the bed and so did our blankets – all night long. Decided to go back to our good old percale cotton ones, which are always cool and always feel so smooth. No balls – I hate bally sheets. Notice I used the word as an adjective!!
I always tell my husband that inventing adjective is a writer’s prerogative. (We also know how not to use them) ; ) It’s a slumber party! Calories don’t count. What snacks will we be munching on at midnight?
As long as there’s CC and coke, it’ll be something salty – probably popcorn. If it’s a non-alcoholic kinda do, then I’m most likely to be guiltily gobbling down anything that’s a sweet – cookies, cakes, donuts, I’m not at all picky!
One of my favorite snacks is popcorn and M&M’s. The warmth of the popcorn melts the chocolate just right! Okay, when playing Truth or Dare, which are you most likely to chose?
Since I tend to like acting silly sometimes, I’d probably take a dare.
Okay! That makes sense. It takes a bit of daring to try and make it as a writer. Besides that, what’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?
One time when we were in Vegas, I got dared to run up the moving sidewalk at the Bellagio like the six-million-dollar man – in slow motion. It was a hoot! Next thing I knew there were others running along with me. We looked like a bunch of alien zombies or maybe like drunken idiots!! Probably the latter. Thing is, we hadn’t drank anything – yet!!
Oh wow! I wish I’d been there! So… truth: Tell us something not very many people know.
I’m a bit of a grouch in the mornings. Most of my friends think I smile all the time because, I usually do. Not so much if it’s really early. I guess you could say I’m more of a night person. Funny, if I write late at night, I don’t normally have to edit too much. If for some strange reason I write in the early hours, it’s pretty well all dribble and the bitchiness comes through real clear.
PJ’s and earplugs!
How would you describe your writing style?
I would say that my writing style is:
(a.) Humorous - I love adding the element of humor in my stories because in my world, we always try and have a chuckle and a laugh over most things. If I spend a great amount of time with someone who is terribly serious, I do get bored. But, if I’m with a friend who likes to have a bit of a giggle, I always find I’ve been much more entertained and more likely want to be with that person again.
(b.) Shoot from the hip as far as the plotting goes - Although I always have my beginning and ending figured out in my mind before I start the story.
(c.) Strong character development – Ever since I started reading as a child, I have to admit to being drawn to the characters in the story. It goes without saying that I like there to be conflicts and good story telling, but once I’ve connect with the heroine and hero, I’ll always finish the book. Can’t help myself. I just have to make sure they get their happy ending.
(d.) I must admit that as I write more books, my ability to write stronger conflicts has grown. Or it just might be that the first three stories I published were novellas and now I’m writing full-length. Gives the author more time to build the tensions and interweave more intrigue.
What’s your typical writing day like?
About eight am I start my day either on my treadmill or walking the seawall close to our house in Qualicum Beach. Then I tidy the house a bit and ready myself for the day. I eat breakfast in my office while I have my first game of spider (my bad!!). Then I check my e-mails and waste a bunch more time writing notes and checking Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads, etc, etc. I call that my promo time so I don’t feel too guilty.
Then I cuss once I’ve seen that the morning has flown and I haven’t written a word. I quickly grab lunch and have my second game of spider. (my real bad!!) Then I open my manuscript and lose myself for at least three or four hours. On a good day I can write 2,500 to 3,500 words.
If I’m under the gun, I start writing first thing in the morning and go for it all day. I guess that’s how I got my latest book written and edited in two months and contracted with Wild Rose Press. It’ll be a Christmas release called “Together for Christmas” #5 in the Vicarage Bench series.
I’m a Spider addict too! Usually I allow one game of Spider and another of Solotaire. If you could have lunch with one writer, who would it be?
I was going to say some far-out writer no one’s ever heard of but the truth is Nora Roberts would be my choice. She’s consistently produced books that I love to read and never regret buying. I know when I start one of her stories, I will be entertained, and invariable, she’ll make me smile, chuckle, or even laugh out-loud a few times between the beginning and the end. I’d love to be able to question her about her journey to get where she is now, and most important how she grew as a writer. The aspects of the craft she would consider to be the most important and how best to work on them. And, since she’s a best-selling millionaire, I bet she’d even pick up the tab!
You’re probably right! What would you consider a romantic date?
Humm, I don’t think romance has too much to do with where you are, but more about who you’re with. Now I remember a night with my husband when we were dancing under the stars on a balcony of a wonderful hotel. It was in a northern city of Chile called Antofagasta where we lived for seven years. The ocean waves rippled within a few feet of the dance floor, and the moon’s radiance turned the water into a luminous breathtaking wonder. Above, the stars twinkled as if someone had set off a trillion fireworks explosions all at once. Romance pulsed in the flowered-scented air around us as the warm breeze…
Okay – I’d better stop now or I’ll have to go and attack him, and he’s busy making dinner. Sigh – never thought my stomach would override my libido!!
And you left us all wanting more! What is your favorite season?
My favorite season is spring, especially if it’s been a long winter. It feels great to get rid of the constricting winter clothes and bring out the t-shirts and short pants and best of all flip-flops. There’s a joy in knowing the weather will keep getting warmer until the summer months give us the long, sunny days. (And can’t forget the hockey playoffs start in April.) Plus, I look forward to getting into my yard. I enjoy gardening and can’t make up my mind if I like the work it takes to get the yard looking beautiful, or if I just like to benefit from the fruits of my labor by sitting on the balcony with my laptop, gazing at all the blooming flowers and baskets.
To be honest, I have to admit to liking winter also, cause Christmas falls in December, and I’m a real suckie for Santa Claus.
Do you have a favorite actor?
My favorite actor of all time was Cary Grant. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him in a part where he isn’t somewhat humorous, but still had the air of a man’s man who couldn’t be intimidated or duped. I guess I also liked the accent and his suave manner. Hugh Grant has played those types of roles from time to time and so does George Clooney. (He reminds me of my father when he was younger so I guess he’d have to be my favorite for today.) As for the younger guys, Johnny Depp is a doll.
What is a movie you could watch over and over?
You’re probably going to laugh, but I have to admit to watching “It’s a Wonderful Life” with Jimmy Stewart every Christmas since I was a kid. I have it on video, and it comes out with my holiday CD’s. Nostalgia and memories of days gone would be my biggest reason for loving this movie, but do I admit that over the years it’s become my habit to watch it while I wrap my family’s presents, drink Baileys, and eat Xmas cookies.
A more recent movie I really loved that sticks in my mind is Grand Torino. I do like to laugh, and if I get to cry too during the same film, then I figure I’ve gotten my money’s worth. And there’s just something about the character that Clint Eastwood portrayed. What a lovable old curmudgeon!
For the best-made movie (10/10) I’ve ever seen would be Avatar in 3D—fantastic cinematography and special effects.
I loved It’s a Wonderful Life too! If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I’d love to live six months in every major city in the world like London, Rome, Paris, New York, etc. Of course, if we were dreaming, I’d have to demand it be in swank apartments right in the heart of each city. That way I could really soak up the different atmospheres and learn about their cultures, cuisine, hotspots and most interesting sights. Unless one actually lives in a place rather than stays for a few weeks, I believe one never really gets to understand the heart of the place or the people. Of course a monthly stipend of huge dollars would be part of the dream!
LOL Yup, I don’t like to play tourist, I want to know about the culture, the lifestyles. Tell us about your newest release.
My newest release is called “Together Again”. It is a lovely, romantic story about a young, pregnant girl who spirit travels forward in time and invades the body of a handsome reporter, who is after a story about a heroine from a bank holdup. While together, they have some incredible and humorous experiences, and they fall in love only to have to separate. His wait to be reunited is one week. Hers is ten years. When the time finally arrives for their reunion, she finds the biggest threat to her seducing him is his faithfulness to her younger self. The question that plagues her is—can he love the woman she is today.
I love the premise!!! Do you have anything in the works?
As I mentioned above, I did recently get a contract for a Christmas story for this series and to tell you the truth, I almost believe there was an angel or some unworldly spirit that fed me the words—they flowed that easily. I started writing it on Jan 4th and had it edited and to my editor for the deadline March 1st. I’ve never been able to write so fast. I’m a bit scared to see the first corrections from my editor…gulp!
This story follows the same as the others in the Vicarage Bench series where an adorable but conniving heroine, whose habit is to takes on everyone’s problems, spirit-travels into the body of our hero, a cranky but gorgeous workaholic. He’s recently inherited his widowed mother and has agreed to move to a town of her choice and open a new accounting office. Between the two females, they make his life crazy with lonely elders, orphaned kids, a stray mongrel, and more holiday festivities that he’s ever wanted to be involved in. But of course it’s Christmas, and who better than someone lurking inside him to realize he’s not nearly as heard-hearted as he tries to make out. Love grows between them as they search for the way to put her back in her own body. Their romance is anything but smooth, and obstacles that stand in their way make them strive all the harder for their happy ending.
Where can we find you?
You can contact me through my website address at http://www.mimibarbour.com and please believe me when I tell you how much I love to get messages from the readers. After all, it gives me another excuse to stall getting back to work!! Also, you can find me on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mimi-Barbour-Fan-Page/203964072966134
And twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/Mimibarb
It’s been a pleasure spending time with you and your readers Lynne. Please visit me on my website: http://www.mimibarbour.com and sign up for my newsletter as we give away a free copy of my newest book every month – your choice of e-book or paperback. And I promise – the newsletter only comes out when I have news! Important news! Like a new contract or a book release or if I win a contest or the lotto or…
Thank you so much Mimi!
Mimi Barbour lives on the beautiful west coast on Vancouver Island and writes her paranormal romances with tongue in cheek and a mad glint in her eye. Asked why she prefers paranormal, she answers - chuckling.
“Because it’s fun! Imagination can be a lot more interesting than what happens in real life to so-called normal people. I love my characters, and my goal is to make the readers love them also. To care about what happens to them while the story unfolds. If I can steal my booklover’s attention away from their every-day grind, absorb them into a fantasy love story, and make them care about the ending, then I’ve done my job.”
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