Thursday, September 30, 2010

Chatting tonight at LRC

Come over to the Love Romances and More Book Club, where I'll be chatting up my releases from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. EST. Don't leave me lonely!

Last day at Ramsey's Reviews


Today marks my last day at Ramsey's Reviews Halloween Bash. I hope you'll pop over for some spooky fun. Leave a comment on my post to be eligible for the giveaway, a copy of One Soul for Sale.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

In the Author Spotlight: Raine Delight

Cate: Please welcome Raine Delight. Raine, will you please share a short bio with us?
Raine: Hi Cate and thanks for having me. Sure thing. Here is my official bio on my website:
Raine Delight is a pseudonym of a self-professed book lover and after one too many TSTL characters, decided to see if she could write something a little better. Well many drafts later, Devon Falls series came to together. It was originally was to be one book but somehow ended up to 4 with a 5th and 6th one being planned for sometime in 2010. I write a paranormal contemporary series for Aspen Mountain and I am also branching out to other genres as I continue to listen to the voices in my head. Check out my book pages to see what is going on with me. My muse is a male nut who likes to leave me to go sip mai tais on the beach and leave me foundering for words; though eventually he takes pity on me and gets my words flowing and characters start settling down.
Personal notes: I live with my own boytoy and two kids. I love Johnny Depp movies and enjoy hiking, reading and watching movies with my family.

Cate: Ahh, Johnny Depp. :) Please tell us about Moonlight & Magic and where it's available.
Raine: Moonlight & Magic is my next Devon Falls story. Barring any editorial issues, it *should* be released sometime in October. My publisher is Aspen Mountain Press.

Cate: Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
Raine:
Tagline: Can a were-tiger convince one stubborn woman that she is his for all time and show her that falling in love is just as sinful as a chocolate kiss?
Blurb:
Dixie Sinclair has watched her cousins all fall in love and now she wants the same. Dared to go to the annual Masquerade ball, Dixie finds the one thing she desires: love…one problem…can she trust that it will last after that one night?
Michael Barnes is a rare white were-tiger who was thrown out of his pride long ago for a trumped up crime, Michael roams the world searching for the one place to call home. Finding that peace in Devon Falls, he finds the one woman who stirs him like no other. Can he convince Dixie that she can trust in him forever?

Cate: Oo, nice. What inspired you to write about the theme?
Raine: I love the idea of a special paranormal town where romance can happen to just about any one. Why should shifters, dream walkers, wizards, mages and the like be exempt from finding their soulmates? Devon Falls is a little bit of my small hometown and a few places I worked at in the past. Plus add in a dash of paranormal and a wicked imagination-VOILA!-Devon Falls was born. :)

Cate: How do you develop your plots and characters?
Raine: Well they talk to me actually. They tell me who they are little by little. :) Drives me crazy sometimes-feels like I am hearing voices but in the end, their story gets told. I have bibles for my series that I create, documents on names I like or dislike and other plot ideas that pop in my head at odd times.

Cate: I have a basket of those too! Do you feel as if the characters live with you as you write? Do they haunt your dreams?
Raine: Sometimes…..I don’t get that wake up dream/voice at 3 a.m. and just have to write but the characters I am concentrating on feel alive in my mind as I try to work out plot issues and such.

Cate: What's next for you?
Raine: I am finishing up a short Vampire BDSM and a sci-fi/futuristic ménage for submission then I am concentrating on a new trilogy I am creating about three Masters in a paranormal BDSM club. The first book is tentively called Desires Unleashed and focuses on Damien, a half-demon of lust, his lover and partner, Sim and the woman destined to be theirs: Larissa Deveroux. The second book is tentatively titled Ecstasy Unchained & centers on Larissa’s sister, Synarra and Dom, Tegan Wynters. Book three is not known to me yet.

Club Fantasy Premise:
What happens when your deepest, darkest fantasies want to be let out and you have no idea where to turn? Is there a place where you can find several partners to enjoy, be punished by your master and enjoy it, or be able to dominate the man of your dreams?
Welcome to Club Fantasy, where all your fantasies will be fulfilled in whatever manner you desire. Each room delivers a different fantasy and whatever you desire will claim you: heart, body and soul! Once you walk through those doors, be prepared to let those fantasies come alive!

Then I am finishing up my Devon Falls series with an introduction of elemental mage siblings and then who knows. LOL You can get an idea of what I am working on my website: http://authorrainedelight.com

Cate: Sounds great! Any other published works?
Raine: Aspen Mountain Press has five of my books currently:
Devon Falls series:
Sticky Magic (1) ~ can be found in Babes in Toyland II anthology and on it’s own.
Red Hot Magic (2)
Fiery Magic (3)
Haunting Magic (4)
Stand Alone Title:
Fairy Kisses & Magical Dreams

Cate: You're one busy woman! Describe your writing in three words.
Raine: Manic, rushed and satisfying.

Cate: What’s the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
Raine: Oh god making sure I don’t head hop to death or over use-ing words. I am getting better but it is very hard to not translate what is in my head over into a document.
Rewarding? Seeing it go live on the website and finding that readers actually enjoyed the book. :)

Cate: Ah, that's always the reward. :) What’s the most interesting comment you have received about your books?
Raine: Oh man let me think……AJ at Dark Divas gave me my first recommended read with Haunting Magic which tickled me to death. Review is here for those who want to read it: http://ddrreviews.blogspot.com/2009/12/devon-falls-4-haunting-magic-by-raine.html

A reader once told me that they wished Devon Falls was real so they could go find those hunky guys. :)

Cate: I bet! :) Who are some of your favorite authors and books? What are you reading now?
Raine: Oh man you asked a very hard question because I have a ton of favorite authors….Jim Butcher, JD Robb, JR Ward, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Gail Z. Martin, Brent Weeks, Joss Ware/Colleen Gleason, Bertrice Small, Nora Roberts, Sherryl Woods, Sierra Dafoe, Lena Austin, Tilly Greene, CJ England, Andrew Grey, Claire Thompson, Clare London, Josh Lanyon and many, many more. I have over 4 bookcases plus an e-reader full of books.

Currently reading: L. A. Banks Vampire Huntress Series. AWESOME! I am on book #9, The Cursed and it kicks butt with a heroine who knows how to go after demons, vampires and evil. It has an awesome connection with characters and a storyline that leaves you gasping. I can not say enough about this series! Shoo….go and grab it. It is pure awesomeness. *grins*

Cate: Where can you be found on the web?
Raine: Ok, here are my links on where to find me online plus where to buy my books.
My links:
Website: http://authorrainedelight.com
Raine’s Book Nook Blog: http://Rainedelightbooknook.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Raine_Delight
Author/Reader Loop: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Author_Raine_Delight
Email me: rainedelight@yahoo.com

Where to buy my books:
Aspen Mountain Press: www.aspenmountainpress.com
Fictionwise: www.fictionwise.com
All Romance E-books (Are): www.allromanceebooks.com
1Romance E-books: www.1romance.com
Amazon Kindle: www.amazon.com

Cate: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
Raine: I love urban fantasy/paranormal books and it has exploded in the recent years. What are a few of your favorite UF/Paranormal authors you are reading.

Cate: Readers, Raine is giving away a book (any but Moonlight & Magic) to a random commenter... so start commenting. Raine will draw the winner’s name notify the winner and post the winner’s name here.

Thanks for being my guest Raine! Best of luck to you.


Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Fun interview



Hope you will pop over to Fallen Angel Reviews for my interview! Learn a little more about me, my views on books and the publishing industry.

Thanks for your support.

Ramsey's Reviews Halloween bash


The fun at Ramsey's Reviews continues, with me in the spotlight! I'll be there today through Thursday. I hope you'll pop over for some spooky fun. Leave a comment on my post to be eligible for the giveaway, a copy of One Soul for Sale.

Reviewers have described this novella as "unpredictable," "well orchestrated," "a touch of whimsy," and "outstanding." Find out for yourself! Leave a comment to be entered in the giveaway. It's a month of fun, so be sure to check back there often.



Monday, September 27, 2010

Story Elements: One Soul for Sale

It's difficult to explain where the ideas for One Soul for Sale originated. As I mentioned yesterday, it was one of those rare stories that tumbled from my head almost fully formed. It made the critique rounds, of course, but I wrote it very quickly to keep up with the narrative gushing forth.

It meshed a few key elements, but the catalyst came from online bidding sites where people sometimes post outrageous items, including a soul once, I believe. Other items so odd, the news featured them included someone's wife, and a house. I'm sure there've been many more, but you get the idea. Further proof that truth is stranger than fiction.

One of the main elements concerns an artist's conundrum in balancing life with art, something with which any writer can identify. How to know when you're too focused on your goal? When to pull back? Or give up? How much of ourselves are we willing to sacrifice for our art? Artists working in all mediums all confront these struggles at some point or another.

I set this story during Halloween, otherwise known as All Hallow's Eve, for a few reasons. One, it's second only to Christmas for me. I love Halloween decorations equally, and my house reflects it. The legends surrounding this holiday have always intrigued me. Halloween is when the barrier disappears between this world and the next, allowing souls to freely roam between. A time for mischief and mayhem. How to know whether a force is good or evil? Sometimes it's difficult to tell - so that element is part of this story.

I also pay small tribute to my mom in One Soul for Sale. She's been gone for years, but her spirit's still strong. I know she's still watching over, along with my dad. The quote attributed to Madelyn's mom actually came from my dad, who always warned me about not wishing my life away. Excellent advice. The present is all we have, and I make the most of it.

I've been lucky to garner some wonderful reviews for One Soul for Sale. Reviewers described it as “outstanding,” a “riveting read… I couldn’t stop until I hit the last page.”

As I mentioned, you have two opportunities to win copies of One Soul for Sale this fall: during Ramsey's Reviews' Halloween Bash, and Night Owl Reviews Halloween Web Hunt. Links to each are on the logos at the top right of this page.

Here's an excerpt:
Madelyn gazes out the window, adrift as a leaf. “Everything’s on a downhill slide – work, dating, all of it. Sometimes I think I have to sell my soul to get what I really want in life.”
“Well, that’s easy – put it on uBuy.” Gwen shakes her cup to stir up sugar from the bottom.
“You’re such a comedian.” Madelyn reinforces Gwen’s dream at every opportunity. Her friend reciprocates by being Madelyn’s best cheerleader for her art, though lately, her sketches are as uninspired as the rest of her life.
“I try my best.” Gwen’s been revising her standup act for months, perfecting it so she can one day actually perform before a crowd at a comedy club rather than open mike night. Or in front of her bedroom mirror.
Their meager salaries don’t allow for luxury, so neither is a stranger to the allure of uBuy, and both feed their addiction to the site daily. Madelyn finds designer clothing bargains while Gwen goes for vintage. Besides supplementing their wardrobes, Madelyn and Gwen love uBuy for its oddities. The odder an item is, the more appeal it has. Madelyn’s desktop swaying, ukele-strumming hula-skirted Gumby is testament to this. Gwen collects memorabilia of famous comedians; Groucho Marx is a favorite.
On that level, Gwen’s offhand suggestion appeals to Madelyn. “I should list my soul, just for kicks. To see what response I’d get.” People have sold stranger things. Maybe some cute guy would buy it, and who knows where that might lead. She’s already tried online dating, though. Cyberspace, she found, is not a good place to meet strangers.
The notion is erased from Madelyn’s mind by the sight of a stunning man on the sidewalk. Standing by the newspaper vending box, he checks his watch. His dark features are set off by his black shirt, black sport coat and black slacks. He’s so perfect, he looks out of context with his surroundings. When he looks at her, shock waves rumble through her nervous system like an oncoming storm. A rush of heat engulfs her.
“Madelyn? Hey, what’s wrong with you.” Gwen’s voice is distant, as if it comes through a tunnel.
She snaps her attention back to her friend. “Nothing.” In truth, Madelyn knew her universe had just shifted.


Sunday, September 26, 2010

J.M. Powers in the Author Spotlight


Cate: Please welcome J.M. Powers. J.M, will you please share a short bio with us?
J.M.:
I'm multi-published and write under the pen names of J.M. Powers and Summer FallsRomance is my genre and humor is my life. Mixing the two, I never know what might combust—historical, fantasy, erotic or a mixture of them all.

 Without the ability to free characters from the nooks and crannies of my mind and onto the page, I'm more wacky than usual. I must write.  I breathe because I must, but I write to take my reader's breath away. I created that quote, and it's one I hold to. I want my readers to bust out laughing, wipe a tear, fight, sigh, hate and love right along with my characters-- then wish the book didn't have to end.

As a military brat, I moved constantly. Exposed to different cultures, climates and new people, was a great experience. Adapting to new situations made me outgoing, and adventurous. It also made me a writer. I mean, not all that upheaval was easy, and writing stories is a great way to escape. These days, I write romance to create an escape for others. Who doesn’t love a happily-ever-after?


Cate: So true. :) Tell us about Basket of Hope and where it's available.
J.M.: Basket of Hope is a paranormal romance filled with magic, medieval masquerade, mayhem, Machias … Okay! Okay! I couldn’t resist the alliteration. Here’s a short blurb:

All Hallows Eve looms near, and encroaching evil shall have its way if a marriage filled with true love and pure magic does not take place. Machias must choose a witch, something Kara never hopes to be.

Machias’ father will do anything to ensure his son chooses wisely—lies, beatings, and even an attempt to soil Kara’s innocence is not past the man.

Machias’ marriage announcement promises to burn Kara’s hope to cinders…unless something truly magical happens at the All Hallows Eve ball.


Cate: Oo, that sounds very cool. Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
J.M.: Glad to, Cate. Okay here’s an interesting part…

Machias slumped over her, his dimple releasing the blood and dripping into her screaming mouth.

Kara sensed Tanner nearby, shouting for her to stop her screaming, but she could not look away from Machias.

"Nay! Dare not die." Kara scooted from beneath him, all prior doubts about him fading. Trading places, she clutched him to her chest, rocking him. "Tell me what ta do!" She looked up to Tanner. "What have ye done?"

"Release him."

She shook her head, laid him back and pressed her head against his chest. The beat of his heart sounded weak. "Oh, God, oh God, Machias…tell me the words. Tell me how ta help ye."

"Machias?" Tanner's voice shook, and for a moment, Kara saw fear in his eyes.

"Get away from him! Ye are at fault for his injuries. Had he not been focused on thy weakness, he would have blocked my blows."

Kara knelt beside Machias. "I take the blame, Milord, just help thy son!"

Tanner slung Machias over his shoulder. Plopping him across Machias' stallion, he scowled at her. "Ye stupid wench." Kicking his foot in the stirrup, he mounted his own horse and snapped his fingers. "Hand me his reins."

She scurried to Machias' stallion, hesitating for a kiss upon Machias' bloodied brow.

"Pick up the reins!" Tanner shouted. He grabbed her by the hair as she neared with them. "Any lowly wench can satisfy his cravings, but only a witch can fulfill his name."

She pulled from his grasp and lowered her gaze, glimpsing Machias' tunic covering her body. The richness of the fabric seemed to mock her. She fingered her tangled hair with berry-stained fingers. "Ye speak the truth. I be unworthy." Due ta me mother's blood slugging through me veins.



Cate: Intriguing! Can you tell us why we're going to love your hero?
J.M.: Ahh, who can resist a blond, blue-eyed, hunk of a man? Sigh....

Machias is strong and powerful when it comes to his kingdom, yet tender when it comes to love. Oh, need I mention his hot, chiseled body?  



Cate: Machias sounds delicious! Tease us with one little thing about your fictional world that makes it different from others.
J.M.: The mixture of paranormal characters in a medieval setting makes Basket of Hope a tad different. Though I didn’t intend to use this era at first… well, it just happened. Sometimes I wonder if I’m fooling myself by assuming I actually have control over what goes on the page. So many times, I’m surprised where the story takes me.



Cate: What's next for you?
J.M.: Jewel of Ramstone, a historical romance, is currently with a publisher. It’s about a maiden without a past—and love which overcomes guilt, secrets and obstacles. It should be out by Fall 2011. Editing has unpredictable timing. There is a book trailer and blurb on my blog. Jewel of Ramstone is my “baby.” I rewrote and edited it so many times my sister wanted to rip the manuscript out of my hands and submit it for me. Even my husband, (who only read the battle scenes) saw my obsession for perfection. When he said I would always find something to polish, therefore never getting it published. Therefore, I submitted it—the rest is history.

 I felt adrift without Jewel of Ramstone to work on. It was kind of like a child growing up and leaving home. Yeah, that’s a bit melodramatic, but I never claimed to be logical.

I’m also working on two other books:

Fiction: (Steps and Stones) A contemporary romance, about a woman who must face tragedy, build a new life… and accept what love really is. (The first chapter is on my blog.)

Non-fiction: (Untitled) About the journey with my son into the world of Autism… and his steps into our world.





Cate: What inspired you to draft your first story?
J.M.: It was a writing assignment in third grade. I seemed to be the only one who didn’t groan when we were told to write a fairy tale. Mine was about a prince who had to find a key to release a princess from her prison before her captor returned from battle.  The teacher gave me a zero because she didn’t believe I wrote it—until my father convinced her otherwise… but that’s another story.



Cate: Do you have a writing routine?
J.M.:  I start each morning by grabbing a cup of coffee and a granola bar. I check email real quick, and then before I get too distracted with the draw of the internet, I open a word document and allow a few characters to escape from my crowded mind. They tend to tell me what to write as I go along. I am a true pantser, as I have never outlined a thing. I’m a bit oblivious when I write. Anything can go on about me, even a kid blaring music and dancing to the Wii.  I’ve been known to look up with a glazed look at dinnertime and wonder where the day went.

Cate: Where can readers find you on the web?

J.M.: Well, you can usually find me shopping for girly things or instant messaging with my sister. What? Why are you looking at me like that, Cate? Ohhh!  *blushes and clears throat*

You can find me on Facebook




I have something for everyone on my blog--experiences on my road to publication, things I learn, excerpts, works in progress, poetry, and even book trailers. I also have purchasing links and updates on my books. To sum it up—I share everything with fellow authors and readers. You can keep updated by clicking the FOLLOW button. (Is that too obvious? LOL)  


Cate: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
J.M.: What makes you want to read a book? The cover? The blurb or excerpt? Maybe a book trailer? 

Cate: Readers, J.M. is giving away one copy of Basket of Hope to one commenter who answers her question. She'll pick a winner on next Sunday and announce the winner here.
Thanks so much for being my guest, J.M.! Best of luck to you.

Casting Call: One Soul for Sale

October's my second-favorite month. Not only are the trees gorgeous as the leaves put on their autumn hues, but we get to celebrate Halloween. And I decorate my house almost as fully for Halloween as for Christmas. I love it!

Two of my stories center on Halloween, but today's Casting Call is for One Soul for Sale, my paranormal/dark fantasy (it's even been labeled "horror," which completely surprised me).

As usual, the story played as a video in my head while I wrote, fast and furious, to keep up with the characters. One Soul for Sale's one of those stories that practically wrote itself. Tomorrow's post is Story Elements, and I'll try to explain where it came from. :)

A few years ago, I stumbled across a little gem of a holiday movie called Home for the Holidays, starring two of my favorite actors. Dylan McDermott and Holly Hunter set the screen on fire, though it's not a graphic love story by any means. Together, they're simply combustible. They have great chemistry. If you haven't seen this movie, I recommend you find it - it's quirky and wonderful.

Holly Hunter's one of my favorite actors. The roles she selects are always fascinating, usually playing somewhat quirky characters. Quirky definitely describes the heroine of One Soul for Sale. Madelyn's an artist, dissatisfied with her life. She wants to make a success of her art, but feels stuck in her life. On a whim, she posts her soul for sale on UBuy, expecting others to take it as a joke. But a bidding war ensues, and someone buys it for $666.

Dylan's dark, mysterious presence, coupled with his mischievous smile, made him shine in my story too. Not until the end do you learn his true identity, or why he's requiring Madelyn to perform three tasks.

Dylan's laid-back, yet teasing, manner perfectly suit the male lead in One Soul for Sale. But is he a demon? Or an angel? You'll have to read it to find out.

This month, you'll have several opportunities to win One Soul for Sale. I'm participating in Ramsey's Reviews Halloween Bash, and Night Owl Reviews Full Moon Halloween Scavenger Hunt. Watch for more details.



Saturday, September 25, 2010

BK Walker in the Romancing Your Dark Side Author Spotlight

Cate: The Romancing your Dark Side Tour wraps up today with BK Walker. Please give BK a warm welcome. BK, will you please share a short bio with us?
BK: Sure Cate. First, thank you so much for having me at your blog today. This tour has been so much fun. In a nutshell, I'm a nurse, a single mother of 3, a writer, friend, and nurturer. I've been working as a nurse since 2001, had my first book published in 2009, and my oldest just turned 21, which is a whole new set of worries in itself.

Cate: Tell us about Night Secrets and where it's available.
BK: Night Secrets tells the tale of a young girl grieving from the loss of her parents. When her mysterious Aunt comes to live with her, strange things begin to happen not only around Keara, but to her. She will learn of her true heritage, she will go through a process of where she will learn the truth about vampires and werewolves, not to mention that she will fall for a hunky wolf herself.
It's available right now at Amazon.com and only in E-book format, though it will be going to print soon.

Cate: Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
BK: Heehee...my favorite part.
A vampire? A real vampire?” I finally asked.
Corbin seemed to perk up at my not running scared by the idea that he was a vampire. “A real vampire Sweet Keara. I make this vow to you though, I would never hurt you.”
“I knew they were real! I suppose werewolves and warlocks are real too huh?” Channing looked at me quickly then looked to Corbin. “They…Are…Real?” I choked out.
“I’m afraid so my sweetness. They are all real.”
Corbin smiled trying to make it seem better than it was.“That’s why you keep calling Channing dog? He’s a werewolf?” I looked at my hand in Channing’s. He let go, not sure if I wanted him touching me. “So what are you going to tell me next, that I too am a dog?” I looked quickly at Channing, “Sorry.” I felt my face flush, open mouth and insert foot Keara you dummy.
No. We don’t believe you to be a wolf or Channing here would have known by your scent. We do believe you to be a shape shifter though.”
What! A shape shifter? What are you talking about Corbin?” I demanded looking at Corbin then Channing.
It was Channing that spoke now. “That slime you were covered with is usually what you see when a new shifter is born. What I mean by born is a first time shifter.  “When the shift takes place for the first time, the bones reshape themselves to accommodate whatever shape is going to be the outcome. During this transformation, our bodies, how shall I put this, ‘lubricate’, our bones to assist in the reformation. During a first shift, an excess amount of this lubrication is made
so that it’s easier for the bones to move and realign as they need to. What is left after a full shift takes place is a puddle of sticky slime. You didn’t fully shift though, you only shimmered and that is why you were covered with it instead of leaving behind a puddle.” He smiled.
“Shimmered?” I frowned.
“It’s when the shift only partially comes, sort of like a caged animal trying to break free. It happened so fast we weren’t even able to get a glimpse of your beast.”

Cate: Intriguing! Can you tell us why we're going to love your hero?
BK: She's strong, witty, fears nothing. We watch her fall in love for the first time and accept it with open arms even as she finds out her destiny, fights a deranged vampire and deals with magic for the first time in her life. As she goes through the motions, she will only get stronger and stronger. I think readers will be able to easily relate to Keara.

Cate: Love a feisty heroine. :) Tease us with one little thing about your fictional world that makes it different from others.
BK: I like to mix up the paranormal elements. You will always find more than one supernatural creature, besides a werewolf or vampire.

Cate: Very cool. What's next for you?
BK: I have several projects in the works. I'm hoping to release Broken Captive later this month. Definitely not a paranormal, but about self mutilation.

Cate: What inspired you to draft your first story?
BK: Voices in my head. I kept hearing this girl and seeing scenes from her life. Eventually I had to write it, if for nothing else than to simply to keep my sanity.

Cate: Do you have a writing routine?
BK: Not at all. I write when the muse strikes and many times I argue with her. I often write as a panster, but when the muse and I struggle, I will use post it notes just to keep me in the right direction.

Cate: Where can readers find you on the web?
BK:  I'm all over really. You will always find me on Facebook,
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1831525609
Twitter - @bk36
http://authorbkwalker.blogspot.com

Cate: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
BK: What is your favorite thing about reading romance, whether paranormal, sweet, contemporary or erotica?

Cate: Readers, Romancing Your Dark Side Tour is giving away a virtual gift basket chock full of goodies at the end of this week to a random commenter... so start commenting and be sure to leave your email address. They'll pick a winner on Sunday, August 25 and announce the winner here.
Thanks so much for being my guest BK! Best of luck to you. 
Guys, don't forget to check back tomorrow for another interview as the Romancing Your Dark Side tour continues!

In the Author Spotlight: Sharon Donovan

Prior to the loss of her vision, author Sharon Donovan was a legal secretary for the Court of Common Pleas where she prepared cases for judges in Domestic Relations. Painting was her passion. When she could no longer paint, she began attending creative writing classes and memoir workshops. After a long and winding road, a new dream rose.
Today, instead of painting her pictures on canvas, Sharon paints her pictures with words. Sharon writes stories of inspiration and suspense. She has certificates in business and medical transcription. She is a published author with The Wild Rose Press, White Rose Publishing, Whimsical Publications and Chicken Soup for the Soul. Echo of a Raven is a CTRR recipient, and The Claddagh Ring is a CAPA nominee. To read excerpts and reviews of Sharon’s books and to sign up for her newsletter, visit her website: www.sharonadonovan.com. You can also keep up with Sharon on her blog: http://sharondonovan.blogspot.com

The Wild Rose Press just released Sharon's latest, Her Biggest Fan, as part of its Men in Uniform series. Her Biggest Fan is available in ebook and print. Please give Sharon a warm welcome!

Here's the blurb:
From the shadows of the woods, he keeps vigil. The stage is set to drive the pretty little princess insane. He’s coming for her. And when he catches her, he’ll pounce on her like the big bad wolf.
After receiving a disturbing fan letter, New York Times best-selling author Tess Kincaid flees to the New England home she’s inherited following her father’s death. The manor has been tainted, every room staged to resemble the way it was in its glory days. However when Tess calls the police, the chilling props vanish into thin air.
Ruggedly handsome Sheriff Mike Andretti is called to investigate the reported burning candles, dancing gargoyles and otherworldly events. When he discovers no trace of the eerie setting, he finds himself caught between duty and desire. Is the woman with the bewitching green eyes delusional or is this a trap of twisted wit set by a demented fan?

And an excerpt:
Cool air drifted out of the ballroom, carrying the scent of burning candles and cigarettes.
Music floated through the corridor, the seductive undertone hauntingly familiar. The music was hypnotic, mesmerizing. Tess could barely think over the loud beat of her heart.
Every sense screamed to beware. She was about to come face-to-face with her stalker, her biggest fan. But over the hammering of her heart and accelerated senses, her will to put an end to this deadly game prevailed. She had to face him, find out who was behind this bizarre masquerade. Anticipation mounting, she made the turn at the end of the corridor and came to a riveting halt.
A female wax gargoyle stood in the doorway, long blonde hair billowing in the breeze. Her glass eyes shimmered with madness, an eerie smile on her face. In one hand, she held a mission bell, the other reaching out for a candle.
Music played from the old phonograph, the plucking of guitar strings laced with seduction. A breeze blew in through open terrace doors, stirring the sweet scent of jasmine from the candelabras.
Two wax nymphs stood at the bar, glass eyes shining bright in the candlelight, pliable fingers wrapped around flutes of pink champagne. Lit cigarettes burned in ashtrays. From behind the bar, a winged monster served drinks.
In the center of the ballroom, two gargoyles held a pose as if they were dancing, their waxy bodies closely pressed together, their reflections glowing in the mirrored ceiling. From the old phonograph in the corner, the hypnotic music played.
Tess gasped, her hand clasping her mouth. “Oh, my God!”
Mike raised his gun, circled the room. “Come out with your hands up. Hancock County Sheriff. Put your hands where I can see them.”


Friday, September 24, 2010

Stacey Kennedy in the Romancing Your Dark Side Author Spotlight


Cate: Please welcome the next Romancing your Dark Side author, Stacey Kennedy. Stacey, will you please share a short bio with us?
Stacey:
Stacey Kennedy’s novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll find fast paced action, life threatening moments and a big bad villain that needs to be destroyed. Her urban fantasy/paranormal and erotic romance series have hit Amazon Kindle and All Romance Ebooks Bestseller lists. If she isn’t plugging away at her next novel, tending to her two little ones, she’s got her nose deep in a good book. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband. Be sure to drop her a line at www.staceykennedy.com, she loves to hear from her readers.



Cate: Tell us about Whatnots & Doodads and where it's available.
Stacey:
A witch with unruly magic, a demon gone good, lava-hot passion and a tornado of emotions–just another night in Strange Hollow.

For Bryanna, a witch from the Asheville Coven, magic is on the fritz. Shunned by her coven and her boyfriend Layton for her unruly magic, she seeks a new life for herself. It just so happens, fate steps in and brings her to Strange Hollow–a place where being different is not only acceptable, but encouraged.

When Bryanna arrives in Strange Hollow, Zeke, a demon gone good, is burning with Hell’s fire over her. Not only has she set his world ablaze, but he’s found one soul he can save. He’s determined to free her from the insecurities that have damaged her soul.

Together they experience lava-hot passion as they weave their way through a tornado of emotions. But when Layton returns for her, will Zeke’s attempts to break the unworthy cage woven around her be enough to keep her in Strange Hollow forever?

Whatnots & Doodads buy link - http://www.staceykennedy.com/whatnots-doodads/



Cate: Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
Stacey:

Bryanna began to walk along the square garden, weaving her way through the flowers, leaning down to sniff one now and again. Just around the bend, a swing appeared. It was so old the white paint was flaked and rust layered the bars. It creaked with the wind as it swayed. She sat down on the cushion and leaned against it. Never had she felt so peaceful. Not once had she experienced anything so serene. Only adding to the perfect moment, the demon who walked toward her. He wore a grin that spoke of so much mystery, as if he knew all the answers and only waited for her to ask. His dark eyes, meant to frighten, only showed her the kindest of emotions.

He trailed his hands from flower to flower with a soft touch to insure no damage. She followed his every step. Her mind captured by thoughts of his hands along her skin, cupping her breasts, caressing her as carefully as he did the flowers.

When he plucked a fuchsia dahlia from the ground her focus came back to his face. With a slowness that nearly pained her to watch, he raised the flower to his nose and sniffed it. His eyes closed, the little furrow in his brow suggested the scent overwhelmed him. She gripped the cushion below her as she gulped deeply. By the elements, she’d never seen anything so sexy in her life, and she’d seen a man smell a flower before. But when Zeke did it, she melted.

His eyes snapped open, bored intently into hers. She did nothing to hide the fact he had completely and utterly aroused her. She wished he enjoyed her as much as he did the scent of the dahlia. He may be a demon, but right now, it didn’t matter. He was too delectable to ignore. Besides, she deserved a little fun after what she’d been through these past days. Using him as an outlet to bring some happiness into her life was nothing she would feel bad about.

He waited only a moment. Something changed in his demeanour, almost an acknowledgment that he’d waited for. In only a few strides, he closed the distance between them, knelt down and held the dahlia up. “You know, I’ve never been one for roses. The way a dahlia feels against your skin is much more pleasing.” He touched the back of her hand with the flower, and that earned him a little shudder. “The petals feel like a hundred fingertips along your skin.” He began to slowly run the flower up her forearm.

Her breath sucked back into her lungs. Unable to stop her eyes from shutting, she revelled in the way he touched her. So gentle, yet intent, done in a way to entice her. Slowly, the petals danced along her skin until the tips tickled her jaw line. He ran the flower from her cheek to her lips, where he slid it in a soft whisper across her mouth.

At that moment, he stopped, the flower no longer touching her. Her eyelids fluttered open, and her breath whooshed out in surprise to find his face so close to hers. He held the flower out, smiling in a way that melted her insides. “Did you enjoy the touch of that?”

“I did.” If she’d been bolder, she would have asked for more. Instead, she took the flower from his hand and raised it to her nose without taking her eyes from his.

His expression turned molten, suggesting where he wanted to take this. And she wouldn’t stop him. She needed him just as much. There was something to him, a way about him that she wanted to lose herself in, even if for only a moment. She wasn’t stupid to the ways of the world. She’d seen how cruel love could be. Zeke wanted her body, nothing more. Something she was all right with. A relationship with no strings attached was just the thing she needed to get over Layton. Her heart couldn’t handle any more pain.

With that, she gave him a sultry look to egg him on. His gaze smouldered like the fires in Hell. He leaned forward and cupped the sides of her face. “You must decide now if you want this.” He ran his thumb over her lips and licked his own. “Because once I kiss you I won’t stop.”
She was ready to say “Get on with it.” But there was a smidgen of hesitation that had her worried. “I’ve never … been with a demon.” She looked at the bulge in his pants. “Are … is everything the same?” Who knew what he had in his jeans?

His deep chuckle sent shivers down her spine. “My body is human in every sense–you won’t find a devil’s pitchfork in my pants.”

She laughed nervously. Well, what could he really expect? Her mouth parted to answer him, but she decided action would speak her point well enough. She closed the distance and kissed his mouth. If she’d doubted how much he wanted her, she didn’t now–his kiss couldn’t lie. His hands tightened around her face as his mouth encouraged in sync with hers. Tongues entwined, lips pressed together firmly. Every touch sent tingles straight to her center and caused heat to build between her thighs.

After a final swipe of her tongue, he sucked her bottom lip into his mouth and bit down very gently. He released it, still holding her face in his hands. His eyes bore into hers in a way no man had ever looked at her before. His eyebrow arched up suggestively. “Bryanna, are you ready to play with fire?”

“Holy earthquake, am I ever!”

Cate: Can you tell us why we're going to love your hero?
Stacey:
Simple. He’s demon gone good. He fights against his nature and spends his time doing good deeds. What’s not to love about that? But…he’s sexy-as-sin too. That always helps!



Cate: Tease us with one little thing about your fictional world that makes it different from others.
Stacey: The paranormal creatures in this story aren’t your usual group. They all have something about them that in the eyes of the world makes them flawed, but in my eyes, that’s what makes them so great!



Cate: What's next for you?
Stacey: On October 11th, BIND ME will be released with Loose ID. It’s a BDSM erotic romance. I’ve got a new urban fantasy coming out with Ellora’s Cave called SUPERNATURALLY KISSED, that I hope will be releasing soon. It’s a ghost romance that’s lots of fun.

After that, in April 2012, WEREWOLVES BE DAMNED will release with Entangled Publishing. It’s a series of four novels that has romance, danger and mystery—lots of ass kicking action with a snarky heroine.

I’m currently writing BITE ME, I’M YOURS, which is another urban fantasy romance that I will be pitching to my agent. I haven’t quite decided if it’s going to be a series yet, but how it’s shaping up—and my habit of turning books into series—it’s quite possible.



Cate: What inspired you to draft your first story?
Stacey: The telling of a story. Writing the first draft is my favorite part. I don’t plot my stories so it’s an exciting adventure while I’m writing it. I could really do without the rest. I grumble through revision and usually don’t get happy again until we’re in the final round of edits.



Cate: Do you have a writing routine?
Stacey: Coffee! That’s my routine. I can’t write without it!!


Cate: Where can readers find you on the web?
Stacey: 
Website – http://www.staceykennedy.com



Twitter - http://twitter.com/#!/Stacey_Kennedy

Cate: Readers, Stacey Kennedy is giving away a book to a random commenter... so start commenting. She'll pick a winner on September 30, 2011 and announce the winner here.

Thanks so much for being my guest Stacey! Best of luck to you.


In the Author Spotlight: J. R. Lindermuth

Cate: Please welcome J. R. Lindermuth. John, will you please share a short bio with us?
John: I’m a native of Pennsylvania, a retired newspaper writer and editor and currently librarian of my county historical society where I assist patrons with genealogy and research.
I’ve published eight novels, including four in the Sticks Hetrick mystery series. I’ve also published stories and articles in a variety of magazines, both print and on line.

Cate: Oh, very cool. My sister's been researching our family.
Tell us about Being Someone Else and where it's available.
John: Being Someone Else, fourth in the Hetrick series, was published in July by Whiskey Creek Press and is available in both print and electronic formats from http://whiskeycreekpress.com/store/ and various other outlets.

Cate: Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
John: Here's a link to an excerpt:
http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/chapters/BeingSomeoneElse_JRLindermuth.shtml

Cate: What inspired you to write about the theme?
John: I’ve always been fascinated by disappearances, switched identifies and similar mysteries.

Cate: How do you develop your plots and characters?
John: I’m more of a pantster than an outliner. My outlines are generally so brief, just a scattering of words to serve as reminders of the direction I’m going, they would be totally meaningless to anyone else. Generally I start with a specific character in a situation and go from there.

Cate: Do you feel as if the characters live with you as you write? Do they haunt your dreams?
John: Definitely. And they grow in depth day by day.

Cate: What's next for you?
John: I’m in the early stages of several concepts, including another Hetrick. Two other completed books have been contracted with another publisher and I’m awaiting release dates.

Cate: Congrats on the contracts! Any other published works?
John: In addition to BSE, the other Hetrick books are Something In Common, Cruel Cuts and Corruption’s Child. Then there are three historicals--Watch The Hour, The Accidental Spy and Schlussel’s Woman—and a mainline, St. Hubert’s Stag.

Cate: Describe your writing in three words.
John: Complex, evocative, entertaining.

Cate: What’s the most challenging aspect of writing? Most rewarding?
John: Broadening the audience. Promotion is a daunting, on-going challenge but necessary if one is to compete with all the other books out there demanding a reader’s attention.
The most rewarding? Pleasing a reader and having them come back for more.

Cate: Amen to that! What’s the most interesting comment you have received about your books?
John: A fellow writer said my books have ‘magnum sizzle.’ I rather like that.

Cate: Who are some of your favorite authors and books? What are you reading now?
John: Too many to list and I’m constantly finding new ones to admire. Perennial favorites among contemporaries would be James Lee Burke and Ruth Rendell. I’m currently enjoying Tim Hallinan’s Poke Rafferty series.

Cate: Where can you be found on the web?
John: My webpage: http://jrlindermuth.com. My blog: http://jrlindermuth.blogspot.com Facebook, Myspace, Authorsden, Crimespace.ning, publishedauthors.ning, Goodreads, Shelfari, etc., etc.

Cate: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
John: I’m grateful if they’ve taken the time to read this and I hope they’ll try one of my books and see if I actually do have ‘sizzle.’

Cate: Especially magnum sizzle! Thanks for being my guest, John! Best of luck to you.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Jamie Magee in the Romancing Your Dark Side Author Spotlight


Cate: The Romancing Your Dark Side author tour continues with Jamie Magee! Please give Jamie a warm welcome. Jamie, will you please share a short bio with us?
Jamie: Ok so here is the boring bio: “
Jamie Magee has always believed that each of us have a defining gift that sets us apart from the rest of the world, she has always envied those who have known from their first breath what their gift was. Not knowing hers, she began a career in the fast paced world of business. Raising a young family, and competing to rise higher in that field would drive some to the point of insanity, but she always found a moment of escape in a passing daydream. Her imagination would take her to places she'd never been, introduce her to people she's never known. Insight, her debuting novel, is a result of that powerful imagination. Today, she is grateful that not knowing what defined her, led her on a path of discovery that would always be a part of her.”

And the fun one is simple. I’m a people person – I love to surround myself with creative souls. I’m married to my soul-mate( a professional Equestrian Hunter Jumper rider  – I don’t think I have ever shared that!) I love loud alternative music – favorite band is Breaking Benjamin closely followed by Perfect circle. I’m addicted to Red Bull. I adore anything that cannot be clearly explained.  I love the Zodiac and have used this heavily in my Insight series. I’ll end by saying I am a proud Scorpio.


Cate: Cool. :) Tell us about Embody and where it's available.
Jamie: My latest book is Embody. It is the second novel in my Insight series. To completely understand this novel you have to read Insight. In the first novel the foundation of the love the characters feel and the turmoil before them is laid out. Here is a short blurb about Embody……

Not many Scorpio’s are known for their patience, and Willow Haywood is no different. Her only desire is to love Landen Chambers and redeem the lost souls of Esterious, but the path to that desire is long, dark and dangerous...
Before Willow’s life had a chance to balance the sudden revelations and grief she had to endure to get to Chara a disturbing discovery is made. A photo, one that shows Willow blissfully embracing the flawless image of Drake Blakeshire; giving her not only proof that she had lived before, but that she had loved him.
Running away from the memory of Drake’s hypnotizing touch, and the prophecy set before her seemed like the logical thing to do. That is, until a dark dream reignites her passion to save the hopeless dimension of Esterious. Willow struggles to find patience – to learn everything she needs to know before she faces Drake again, but her eagerness is dangerous and one step in the wrong direction takes everything and everyone away from her – the only way to survive this trial is for Willow to remember who she is and what she really wants out of this life.




Cate: Intriguing! Please tantalize us with a story blurb or excerpt.
Jamie: You got it – here is a very short excerpt from Embody (:

“Drake smiled again and slowly closed the gap between us. He raised his hand to my head. I gasped before his touch, knowing how amazing it would feel. He hesitated, smiled at me, and then touched the side of my head. A warm rush swept through me followed by absolute bliss. “How I wander how you managed to do this to yourself?” He said, so quietly that I barley heard him. “Be honest with me,” he said, as he slowly lowered his had tucking a lock of my hair behind my ear. “Do you remember anything before that storm you were in?”

I looked down shameful. He brought his hand to my chin and pulled my face up gently. His touch was so perfect. I stared deeply into his smiling eyes.

“That is what I thought you might say,” he whispered.”



Cate: Can you tell us why we're going to love your hero?
Jamie: I have found that as this series moves forward the readers tend to fall for the ‘bad guy’, Drake. It’s not that they want Willow to be with him – it’s almost as if they see him as their soul mate and Landen, “the good guy’ as Willows.

Both Landen and Drake are Pisces – which plays into the Zodiac thread in my series, but this is a duel sign and Landen plays the part of the peaceful poet, calm old soul – a strong man that does not over power his partner. Drake on the other hand plays to the darker side. He is a fearless leader that emanates power – in his eyes you can see the pain of the choices he has made. There is something very addicting about how intently both Drake and Landen peer into Willow’s eyes.



Cate: Tease us with one little thing about your fictional world that makes it different from others.
Jamie: In my novels I weaved together the elements that send my imagination soaring: the Zodiac, past lives, alternate dimensions, the idea of soul mates – and of course there is a dark side as well.  So far, I have not found a novel that includes all of these elements, but the literary world is broad the chances are I just have not come across it yet (:




Cate: What's next for you?
Jamie:
The next novel in the Insight series, Image, will be released on Nov 8th. Early next spring I hope to introduce and entirely new series to my readers. The hardest part for me is waiting to share!



Cate: What inspired you to draft your first story?
Jamie: Honestly, it was a daydream that would not rest. The image of green eyed girl along with emotions I pray I will never feel first hand haunted me until I began my draft. I have always been a daydreamer, but I have never once had one take such a strong hold on me.



Cate: Do you have a writing routine?
Jamie: I have a very active day career along with a young family so, my writing routine revolves around the late of hours of the night when the world is resting and my daydreams can come to life without interruption.

Cate: Sounds familiar! Where can readers find you on the web?
My website will lead you to all of hang outs:


I tend to spend a lot of time on my FB page.


And I was lucky enough to asked to be a part of ‘The Writer’s Voice’ a blog with the dynamic voices of 12 different authors – some of your favorites I’m sure ( I know they are some of my favorites!)

http://ourbooksourvoice.blogspot.com/

Cate: Is there anything you’d like to ask our readers?
Jamie: Of course, what draws you to pick up a new author? Is it the cover, the blurb, or reviews you read across blogs?

I want to thank all of you for reading this interview and I want to extend my gratitude to Cate for having me on this blog today!



Cate: Thanks so much for being my guest, Jamie! Best of luck to you.

And be sure to come back tomorrow for another Romancing Your Dark Side author interview!