Fun with Larissa Ione + Giveaways!!!
>
We’re having a little fun with Larissa Ione today! She’s UBER busy with the release of IMMORTAL RIDER, so when I asked her over to the blog, I gave her something really easy to do and something fun for us to read! A Twitter-type interview with fun, fascinating and frivilous facts about Larissa!
The signs are everywhere…disastrous world events. Evil rising up, unleashed upon the innocent. The prophecies were there…but no one listened. Until now. The time has come for those who can either usher in Doomsday…or prevent it. They are here. They ride. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
Arik Wagner, a soldier with the U.S. Army’s paranormal unit, the R-XR, kissed a girl and liked it. And then he went to hell as punishment. Where he’s spent weeks being tortured…and plotting revenge.
Limos, Horsewoman of the Apocalypse, isn’t your average girl. She’s immortal, dangerous, and her fiancé is Satan himself. In a moment of weakness, she gave in to her desire and kissed Arik, triggering her fiancé’s wrath – and his claim on her. In order to save Arik, and the world, Limos must make a dangerous pact with her recently turned evil brother, Pestilence. A deal that might just cost her her soul…and her heart.
Now, let’s learn some fun stuff about Larissa!
Do You Like Going Window Shopping?
Yes!
Can You Tell If Someone Is Lying To You?
Usually.
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents?
I kill watch batteries. Like, within hours. Can’t wear anything but wind-ups!
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
I’m happier!
Do You Believe In Destiny?
Sort of…
Ever Broken Any Bones?
Both wrists (at the same time)
Have You Ever Felt Like You Hit Rock Bottom?
Yes
Are You A Touchy Feely Person?
*shudders* No
Do You Like Eating Out At Restaurants?
Love it!
Any Tattoos?
Two. Demon caduceus from my books on my right ankle and a Vulcan IDIC from Star Trek on my hip.
Have You Ever Cheated On A Test?
Maybe…*g*
Do You Have Any Weird Habits?
I only shave one leg per day.
Have You Ever Walked Out On A Movie At The Theater?
No
Have You Ever Regretted One Of Your “Romantic Encounters”?
Er…yes.
Do You Believe In The Afterlife?
Definitely
Ever Been Addicted To A Game?
Oh, yes. Any D&D computer game!
You name it…
First impression of your significant other.
Yum
Do You Like To Go Camping?
Yes…as long as it’s in a camper. I hate the tent thing!
Can’t Stand Being Around People Who_________?
Brag
Do You Believe In Extraterrestrials Or Life On Other Planets?
I do!
Have you ever had a job where you had to wear a uniform?
Several
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Aisle – so I don’t have to climb over people to go to the bathroom!
How Do You Like To Celebrate Your Birthday?
By pretending it didn’t happen.
How Do You Like To Spend New Year’s Eve?
Sleeping. Yep, I’m a BLAST!
Have You Ever Been Hit By A Girl?
Yep. And I hit back.
Are You Afraid Of Heights?
Yes
Have You Ever Gone Cow-Tipping?
Ugh…that’s horrible!
Do you prefer your mattress soft or hard?
Very soft!
Do you believe in snipes?
They exist!
Do You Like Rainy Days Or Snowy Winter Days More?
Gimme snow any day!
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Beer
Are You A Heavy Or Light Sleeper?
Light. So very, very light.
Do You Have Any Phobias Or Fears?
I’m insanely claustrophobic. I’m still traumatized by Mission: Space at Epcot Center because it was so tight!
Ever Been To A Strip Club?
More than one!
Ever Won The Lottery?
I wish!
Are you wearing socks right now?
Yep. I’m rarely without them.
Last food you ate?
Chocolate creme Oreos
Do you need to do laundry?
Always
Have You Ever Fired A Gun?
I earned a marksmanship ribbon in the Air Force, so… 🙂
Given A Chance, Would You Bungee Jump?
Hell, no.
Favorite Thing To Spend Money On?
My pets
Have You Ever Ridden In An Ambulance?
Yep…was a certified EMT!
Do You Have A Recurring Dream?
I often dream of my daughter. Except I don’t have a daughter. It’s weird.
Do You Snore Or Steal The Covers Or Roll Around In Your Sleep?
All of the above
Last concert you went to?
Brooks and Dun
Before you started this survey, what were you doing?
Playing with the dog
What is the last thing you watched on TV?
NCIS
Would you ever consider living abroad?
In a heartbeat
What time is bed time?
10 PM
Have you ever won a trophy?
Yes…in 4-H
What’s under your bed?
Dustbunnies
What do you do most when you are bored?
Read
What are some of the different jobs that you have had in your life?
Fast-food worker, waitress, video store clerk, security officer, bartender, EMT, meteorologist
Can you tie a maraschino cherry stem with your tongue?
Yes
Open Internationally!
>Fun with Larissa Ione + Giveaways!!!
>
We’re having a little fun with Larissa Ione today! She’s UBER busy with the release of IMMORTAL RIDER, so when I asked her over to the blog, I gave her something really easy to do and something fun for us to read! A Twitter-type interview with fun, fascinating and frivilous facts about Larissa!
The signs are everywhere…disastrous world events. Evil rising up, unleashed upon the innocent. The prophecies were there…but no one listened. Until now. The time has come for those who can either usher in Doomsday…or prevent it. They are here. They ride. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
Arik Wagner, a soldier with the U.S. Army’s paranormal unit, the R-XR, kissed a girl and liked it. And then he went to hell as punishment. Where he’s spent weeks being tortured…and plotting revenge.
Limos, Horsewoman of the Apocalypse, isn’t your average girl. She’s immortal, dangerous, and her fiancé is Satan himself. In a moment of weakness, she gave in to her desire and kissed Arik, triggering her fiancé’s wrath – and his claim on her. In order to save Arik, and the world, Limos must make a dangerous pact with her recently turned evil brother, Pestilence. A deal that might just cost her her soul…and her heart.
Now, let’s learn some fun stuff about Larissa!
Do You Like Going Window Shopping?
Yes!
Can You Tell If Someone Is Lying To You?
Usually.
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents?
I kill watch batteries. Like, within hours. Can’t wear anything but wind-ups!
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
I’m happier!
Do You Believe In Destiny?
Sort of…
Ever Broken Any Bones?
Both wrists (at the same time)
Have You Ever Felt Like You Hit Rock Bottom?
Yes
Are You A Touchy Feely Person?
*shudders* No
Do You Like Eating Out At Restaurants?
Love it!
Any Tattoos?
Two. Demon caduceus from my books on my right ankle and a Vulcan IDIC from Star Trek on my hip.
Have You Ever Cheated On A Test?
Maybe…*g*
Do You Have Any Weird Habits?
I only shave one leg per day.
Have You Ever Walked Out On A Movie At The Theater?
No
Have You Ever Regretted One Of Your “Romantic Encounters”?
Er…yes.
Do You Believe In The Afterlife?
Definitely
Ever Been Addicted To A Game?
Oh, yes. Any D&D computer game!
You name it…
First impression of your significant other.
Yum
Do You Like To Go Camping?
Yes…as long as it’s in a camper. I hate the tent thing!
Can’t Stand Being Around People Who_________?
Brag
Do You Believe In Extraterrestrials Or Life On Other Planets?
I do!
Have you ever had a job where you had to wear a uniform?
Several
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Aisle – so I don’t have to climb over people to go to the bathroom!
How Do You Like To Celebrate Your Birthday?
By pretending it didn’t happen.
How Do You Like To Spend New Year’s Eve?
Sleeping. Yep, I’m a BLAST!
Have You Ever Been Hit By A Girl?
Yep. And I hit back.
Are You Afraid Of Heights?
Yes
Have You Ever Gone Cow-Tipping?
Ugh…that’s horrible!
Do you prefer your mattress soft or hard?
Very soft!
Do you believe in snipes?
They exist!
Do You Like Rainy Days Or Snowy Winter Days More?
Gimme snow any day!
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Beer
Are You A Heavy Or Light Sleeper?
Light. So very, very light.
Do You Have Any Phobias Or Fears?
I’m insanely claustrophobic. I’m still traumatized by Mission: Space at Epcot Center because it was so tight!
Ever Been To A Strip Club?
More than one!
Ever Won The Lottery?
I wish!
Are you wearing socks right now?
Yep. I’m rarely without them.
Last food you ate?
Chocolate creme Oreos
Do you need to do laundry?
Always
Have You Ever Fired A Gun?
I earned a marksmanship ribbon in the Air Force, so… 🙂
Given A Chance, Would You Bungee Jump?
Hell, no.
Favorite Thing To Spend Money On?
My pets
Have You Ever Ridden In An Ambulance?
Yep…was a certified EMT!
Do You Have A Recurring Dream?
I often dream of my daughter. Except I don’t have a daughter. It’s weird.
Do You Snore Or Steal The Covers Or Roll Around In Your Sleep?
All of the above
Last concert you went to?
Brooks and Dun
Before you started this survey, what were you doing?
Playing with the dog
What is the last thing you watched on TV?
NCIS
Would you ever consider living abroad?
In a heartbeat
What time is bed time?
10 PM
Have you ever won a trophy?
Yes…in 4-H
What’s under your bed?
Dustbunnies
What do you do most when you are bored?
Read
What are some of the different jobs that you have had in your life?
Fast-food worker, waitress, video store clerk, security officer, bartender, EMT, meteorologist
Can you tie a maraschino cherry stem with your tongue?
Yes
Open Internationally!
Interview & Giveaway with Lori Wilde
>Update 11/16/11 7:07am: I will include all entries received until I get around to choosing a winner this morning **G** Thanks for coming by!!
Today’s guest is New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Lori Wilde. She has sold 64 novels and novellas to four major New York Publishing houses.
Her new release The Christmas Cookie Chronicles: Carrie: A Twilight, Texas Story releases tomorrow, November 15th. We’ve got giveaways — and I’m trying out Rafflecopter, so let me know what you think!
“On Christmas Eve, if you sleep with kismet cookies under your pillow and dream of your own true love, he will be your destiny.”
Carrie MacGregor doesn’t believe this—not one bit. She might be a “paid up” member of the Cookie Club and the local Sweethearts Knitting Club, but she’s not about to give in to the forced ho-ho-ho of the season. And why?
Mark Leland. When he left town he broke Carrie’s heart. Now, the local-guy-made good is back, hosting the reality show “Fact or Fantasy.”
Fact: Mark broke her heart. Fantasy: her friends think they’ll be getting back together. But could the magic of a Twilight, Texas Christmas make Carrie’s secret dreams come true?
Get your copy at Amazon or Barnes and Noble
Lori, tell us about your upcoming release.
I’m very excited about these three Christmas ebooks that continue to follow the adventures of the club members from my Twilight, Texas series. Book one is about Flynn MacGregor’s sister, Carrie, who’s fully coming into her own as a woman, when the handsome man she impulsively married in Vegas when she was seventeen comes back to town determined to debunk the Sweethearts myth.
What’s your favorite thing about the book featured here today?
Getting to revisit characters I’ve known and loved right along with my readers.
What sparked the idea for this book/series?
The huge success of my Twilight, Texas series. I’d left a lot of loose ends dangling and these ebooks were a way for readers to find out what happened to all those secondary characters when they get books of their own.
What creates the biggest conflict between your hero and heroine?
The hero a reality TV host come back to town to debunk the romantic myth that brings tourists flooding into Twilight. If he debunks the myth, it not only threatens the town, but his happily-ever-after with Carrie.
Why did you put these two together?
I wanted to explore the dynamics of a hero who made a huge success paired with the woman he left behind in order to achieve that success.
What is your strategy in creating villains?
The villain in this book is the hero’s boss. She’s in the story to put pressure on him to chose his fast lane lifestyle over his hometown and high school sweetheart.
What was the hardest part of this book to write and why?
The hardest part is juggling my schedule. I teach writing, am going to school for my Masters degree and I write five books a year.
Tell us something unusual about rhe creation of this book.
To research the hero’s career, I had to watch a lot of reality T.V.
Getting to revisit the characters and town. I really love Twilight, which is based on a real town where I once lived.
That dreams can come true if you just dare to believe!
Does your novel have a theme? How did that come about?
All my novels have themes. I consider the theme before I ever write the book. The theme guides ever aspect of my writing from character development, to plot, to the choice of clothing the characters wear. I believe theme is one of the most important elements of any good story.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Stephen King
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
My father. Before he retired he was a teacher, journalist and songwriter. He gave me Dwight Swain’s book, Techniques of the Selling Writer when I was thirteen. He’s my real mentor.
How does your family view your writing career?
They’re very proud and supportive. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive family. I’m blessed.
What entity do you feel supports you most in your writing career outside of family members?
RWA.
What is your writing routine?
It’s crazy and follows no set pattern. If I’m on deadline I’ll write 60-80 hours a week or more. So I’m writing from the time I get up, to the time I go to bed. If I’m not on a tight deadline (which is rare), I’ll get up and write for three to four hours in the morning and then take the rest of the day off.
How do you keep in touch with your readers?
FB, Twitter, Blog, email, snail mail, newsletters.
What are you reading now?
I usually read three or four books at once. I’m reading a book on health, a book on psychology, a book on writing and the ARC of Piper Maitland’s Acquainted with the Night. It’s an awesome book!
What is in your TBR pile?
Um, do you have all day? I have a TBR that stretches to the ceiling.
What would you like to tell readers?
Keep reading! Authors wouldn’t exist without you. Thank you, thank you. I am so grateful for readers.
What is your preferred genre to read for pleasure?
Historical fiction.
Do you have a second career?
I’m a writing teacher and now, an editor for Entangled Books.
What did you do before you became a full-time writer?
I was a registered nurse for 20 years.
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
Emotion, emotion, emotion, emotion. And a compelling voice.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you started writing?
How extremely difficult it is. I would have worked harder much sooner.
How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you use any set formula?
The plot springs from character. Fully develop your characters and you’ll know your plot. I use the Enneagram to create compelling characters.
What tools do you feel are must-haves for writers?
Persistence, determination, stubbornness.
How would you best describe your books?
Heartfelt.
Honestly, I can’t answer that. I write what I know will sell. I make a living doing this. I can’t afford to indulge my whims. This is a career for me. I love storytelling, but I want to write what readers want to read.
What do you most like about writing? Least like?
Everything. I live and breathe it. I love how hard it is. What I like least? The fickleness of the publishing business.
Which is your favorite of the books you have written?
They’re all special in their own way.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
Hitting the NYT and USA Today list. It only took 20 years.
What would you say is your biggest writing quirk?
Hmm, not sure what this means. Probably my intensity. I’m pretty single-minded about writing. I truly eat, breathe and sleep it.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Watch movies. Knit. Play angry birds. Travel.
What are your current projects?
I’m currently writing a new three book series for Blaze. I’ve also got a new series coming up with Avon next year about cutting horse cowboys.
Where can we find you online?
www.loriwilde.com
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents? If So, What?
I can tie a cherry stem with my tongue.
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
Much different! I’ve was extremely shy to the point of pathology. I knew I had to overcome that if I wanted to be a writer. Yes, writers need to be extroverted at times. So bit by bit, I learned to put myself out there. Now, I have so much fun, I’d never go back to being shy.
Do You Believe That The Cup Is Half Empty Or Half Full?
Half-full.
Favorite Midnight Snack?
I recently got healthy, so that’s changed. Once upon a time it would have been chocolate chip cookies. Now it’s spaghetti squash with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. I feel so much better now!
Are You An Introvert Or An Extrovert?
I’m still an introvert, but I have to get out every two-three months or I go stir-crazy.
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Aisle! Don’t hem me in.
Do You Like Short Or Long Hair On A Guy?
Short.
Ever Hit A Jackpot On A Slot Machine?
Nope. I don’t play slots.
How many pillows do you like to sleep with?
Two since I tore my rotator cuff.
Do you believe in snipes?
Nope.
Which do you like more—rainy days or snowy days?
It rarely snows in my neck of the woods, so snow.
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Iced tea.
Do You Have A Recurring Dream? What Happens In It?
It’s the unprepared dream. I’m back in nursing, the shift is over and I haven’t done a thing.
Are You Usually Late, Early Or Right On Time?
I am usually right on time; but I’m married to guy who runs late. It drives me crazy when he makes me late.
Lori is a past RITA finalist and has four times been nominated for Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. She’s won the Colorado Award of Excellence, the Wisconsin Write Touch Award, The Lories, The More Than Maggie, the Golden Quill, The Laurel Wreath and The BestBooks of 2006 Book Award.
Her books have been translated into 22 languages and excerpted in Cosmopolitan, Redbook, Complete Woman, All You and Quick and Simple magazines. She lives in Texas with her husband Bill.
>Interview & Giveaway with Lori Wilde
>Update 11/16/11 7:07am: I will include all entries received until I get around to choosing a winner this morning **G** Thanks for coming by!!
Today’s guest is New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Lori Wilde. She has sold 64 novels and novellas to four major New York Publishing houses.
Her new release The Christmas Cookie Chronicles: Carrie: A Twilight, Texas Story releases tomorrow, November 15th. We’ve got giveaways — and I’m trying out Rafflecopter, so let me know what you think!
“On Christmas Eve, if you sleep with kismet cookies under your pillow and dream of your own true love, he will be your destiny.”
Carrie MacGregor doesn’t believe this—not one bit. She might be a “paid up” member of the Cookie Club and the local Sweethearts Knitting Club, but she’s not about to give in to the forced ho-ho-ho of the season. And why?
Mark Leland. When he left town he broke Carrie’s heart. Now, the local-guy-made good is back, hosting the reality show “Fact or Fantasy.”
Fact: Mark broke her heart. Fantasy: her friends think they’ll be getting back together. But could the magic of a Twilight, Texas Christmas make Carrie’s secret dreams come true?
Get your copy at Amazon or Barnes and Noble
Lori, tell us about your upcoming release.
I’m very excited about these three Christmas ebooks that continue to follow the adventures of the club members from my Twilight, Texas series. Book one is about Flynn MacGregor’s sister, Carrie, who’s fully coming into her own as a woman, when the handsome man she impulsively married in Vegas when she was seventeen comes back to town determined to debunk the Sweethearts myth.
What’s your favorite thing about the book featured here today?
Getting to revisit characters I’ve known and loved right along with my readers.
What sparked the idea for this book/series?
The huge success of my Twilight, Texas series. I’d left a lot of loose ends dangling and these ebooks were a way for readers to find out what happened to all those secondary characters when they get books of their own.
What creates the biggest conflict between your hero and heroine?
The hero a reality TV host come back to town to debunk the romantic myth that brings tourists flooding into Twilight. If he debunks the myth, it not only threatens the town, but his happily-ever-after with Carrie.
Why did you put these two together?
I wanted to explore the dynamics of a hero who made a huge success paired with the woman he left behind in order to achieve that success.
What is your strategy in creating villains?
The villain in this book is the hero’s boss. She’s in the story to put pressure on him to chose his fast lane lifestyle over his hometown and high school sweetheart.
What was the hardest part of this book to write and why?
The hardest part is juggling my schedule. I teach writing, am going to school for my Masters degree and I write five books a year.
Tell us something unusual about rhe creation of this book.
To research the hero’s career, I had to watch a lot of reality T.V.
Getting to revisit the characters and town. I really love Twilight, which is based on a real town where I once lived.
That dreams can come true if you just dare to believe!
Does your novel have a theme? How did that come about?
All my novels have themes. I consider the theme before I ever write the book. The theme guides ever aspect of my writing from character development, to plot, to the choice of clothing the characters wear. I believe theme is one of the most important elements of any good story.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Stephen King
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
My father. Before he retired he was a teacher, journalist and songwriter. He gave me Dwight Swain’s book, Techniques of the Selling Writer when I was thirteen. He’s my real mentor.
How does your family view your writing career?
They’re very proud and supportive. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive family. I’m blessed.
What entity do you feel supports you most in your writing career outside of family members?
RWA.
What is your writing routine?
It’s crazy and follows no set pattern. If I’m on deadline I’ll write 60-80 hours a week or more. So I’m writing from the time I get up, to the time I go to bed. If I’m not on a tight deadline (which is rare), I’ll get up and write for three to four hours in the morning and then take the rest of the day off.
How do you keep in touch with your readers?
FB, Twitter, Blog, email, snail mail, newsletters.
What are you reading now?
I usually read three or four books at once. I’m reading a book on health, a book on psychology, a book on writing and the ARC of Piper Maitland’s Acquainted with the Night. It’s an awesome book!
What is in your TBR pile?
Um, do you have all day? I have a TBR that stretches to the ceiling.
What would you like to tell readers?
Keep reading! Authors wouldn’t exist without you. Thank you, thank you. I am so grateful for readers.
What is your preferred genre to read for pleasure?
Historical fiction.
Do you have a second career?
I’m a writing teacher and now, an editor for Entangled Books.
What did you do before you became a full-time writer?
I was a registered nurse for 20 years.
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
Emotion, emotion, emotion, emotion. And a compelling voice.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you started writing?
How extremely difficult it is. I would have worked harder much sooner.
How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you use any set formula?
The plot springs from character. Fully develop your characters and you’ll know your plot. I use the Enneagram to create compelling characters.
What tools do you feel are must-haves for writers?
Persistence, determination, stubbornness.
How would you best describe your books?
Heartfelt.
Honestly, I can’t answer that. I write what I know will sell. I make a living doing this. I can’t afford to indulge my whims. This is a career for me. I love storytelling, but I want to write what readers want to read.
What do you most like about writing? Least like?
Everything. I live and breathe it. I love how hard it is. What I like least? The fickleness of the publishing business.
Which is your favorite of the books you have written?
They’re all special in their own way.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
Hitting the NYT and USA Today list. It only took 20 years.
What would you say is your biggest writing quirk?
Hmm, not sure what this means. Probably my intensity. I’m pretty single-minded about writing. I truly eat, breathe and sleep it.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Watch movies. Knit. Play angry birds. Travel.
What are your current projects?
I’m currently writing a new three book series for Blaze. I’ve also got a new series coming up with Avon next year about cutting horse cowboys.
Where can we find you online?
www.loriwilde.com
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents? If So, What?
I can tie a cherry stem with my tongue.
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
Much different! I’ve was extremely shy to the point of pathology. I knew I had to overcome that if I wanted to be a writer. Yes, writers need to be extroverted at times. So bit by bit, I learned to put myself out there. Now, I have so much fun, I’d never go back to being shy.
Do You Believe That The Cup Is Half Empty Or Half Full?
Half-full.
Favorite Midnight Snack?
I recently got healthy, so that’s changed. Once upon a time it would have been chocolate chip cookies. Now it’s spaghetti squash with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. I feel so much better now!
Are You An Introvert Or An Extrovert?
I’m still an introvert, but I have to get out every two-three months or I go stir-crazy.
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Aisle! Don’t hem me in.
Do You Like Short Or Long Hair On A Guy?
Short.
Ever Hit A Jackpot On A Slot Machine?
Nope. I don’t play slots.
How many pillows do you like to sleep with?
Two since I tore my rotator cuff.
Do you believe in snipes?
Nope.
Which do you like more—rainy days or snowy days?
It rarely snows in my neck of the woods, so snow.
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Iced tea.
Do You Have A Recurring Dream? What Happens In It?
It’s the unprepared dream. I’m back in nursing, the shift is over and I haven’t done a thing.
Are You Usually Late, Early Or Right On Time?
I am usually right on time; but I’m married to guy who runs late. It drives me crazy when he makes me late.
Lori is a past RITA finalist and has four times been nominated for Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award. She’s won the Colorado Award of Excellence, the Wisconsin Write Touch Award, The Lories, The More Than Maggie, the Golden Quill, The Laurel Wreath and The BestBooks of 2006 Book Award.
Her books have been translated into 22 languages and excerpted in Cosmopolitan, Redbook, Complete Woman, All You and Quick and Simple magazines. She lives in Texas with her husband Bill.
NYT Bestseller Anita Clenney Interview, Excerpt + Giveaway!
>Today, I welcome NYT and USA Today Bestseller Anita Clenney! Anita’s celebrating the release of her second book in the Highland Warrior series, Embrace The Highland Warrior. And we have a giveaway of a copy of the book and 5 custom handmade bookmarks. Simply comment to enter!
Anita, tell us about your upcoming release.
Here’s a blurb:
Cody MacBain let the woman of his destiny slip away. A member of an ancient clan of Scottish warriors, he grew up beside Shay Logan as her secret protector, but his heart compelled him to become more. Until Shay’s true identity was revealed, and the fated pair’s chance was gone…
But danger will drive them back into each other’s arms…
Shay fell for the boy next door, suspecting nothing of the ancient secrets he guarded. After a stinging betrayal, she’s determined to banish the memories of her first love forever. But the past can’t let go, and the boy she once loved has returned to her a warrior determined to protect her from the unspeakable evil fate has planned…
What’s your favorite thing about the book featured here today?
I love the emotion between Cody and Shay, the powerful connection they shared, and I love watching them try to reconnect now. They’ve changed so much, but the elements of their past are still there. I also love having all the warriors from Awaken helping them out. In the midst of turmoil and confusion, it gives a feel good element.
What sparked the idea for this book/series?
A dream.
What creates the biggest conflict between your hero and heroine?
A terrible betrayal, and secrets that will make your heart ache.
Why did you put these two together?
These two just seemed so natural. They belonged together, then all the secrets got in the way and messed up a good thing.
What is your strategy in creating villains?
I love my villains, one of them in particular. In fact, he’s so great I want to make him a hero. It’s either that or go back and do a prequel. His backstory is just wonderful. I don’t know how I come up with them. I can’t explain it. They’re just there. And I have so many of them. I love it.
What was the hardest part of this book to write and why?
Love scenes. I’m never sure how far I want to go.
Tell us something unusual about this book (i.e. in its creation, execution, production).
This second book was the first manuscript I ever wrote. It was originally a romantic suspense. I started writing the first book in this series, what is now Awaken, about six months later. When my agent saw Awaken, she said this is the one. She was right. She always is. I knew this had to be a series, and I realized that the first manuscript was the perfect second book of the series. So the first became second and the second became first.
What do you love most about this book/series?
I love this series. The warriors have become like family members to me. I love hidden treasure and secret things, old keys and graveyards and all those eerie things. They’re all in here. And I absolutely love that connection between a woman and a man that defies the universe to stop it.
Is there a message in this novel that you want readers to grasp?
There are some underlying messages. Evil doesn’t come up and say, “Hello, I’m evil.” But mostly, when readers pick up my books, I want them to laugh, cry, gasp, maybe even scream.
Does your novel have a theme? How did that come about?
I’m rotten at figuring out themes. It’s about Secret Warriors, Ancient Evil, and Destined Love. The series started with a dream and a very vivid imagination.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
If I had to choose…Elizabeth Peters who wrote the Amelia Peabody series.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
I think the stories I loved influenced me. I read, I felt, and I wanted to do it myself.
How does your family view your writing career?
They’re very supportive and proud of me. My husband is waiting for me to get rich and buy him a ranch.
What entity do you feel supports you most in your writing career outside of family members?
My critique partner, Dana Rodgers is amazing. She’s such a help to me.
How do you keep in touch with your readers?
Mostly email. It’s so great getting emails. That was something I wasn’t quite prepared for. What a thrill.
What is in your TBR pile?
I get a headache just thinking about it.
What would you like to tell readers?
Please buy my book…oh, you were serious. I adore this series, and I hope you do too. There are so many wonderful writers out there, that I cherish every reader who spends their hard earned money and time on me.
I have varied tastes ranging from romance to mysteries. I love Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and I also love Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series.
Do you have a second career? (Yes, motherhood counts!)
If motherhood counts, I have two! I spend a lot of time with my hubby and kids, but I do write full time.
What did you do before you became a full-time writer?
I was staying home with the kids for a few years, but prior to that I worked in real estate, and I was an administrative assistant. I’ve also booked shows and traveled with Aztec Dancers.
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
Good storytelling, really nailing down the characters and the emotion.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you started writing?
The importance of writing faster.
How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you use any set formula?
No formulas. I get an idea (this series started with a dream) then I mull it over and as the story unfolds in my head I make lots of notes, and then I start writing. I usually have a synopsis before I start actually writing the story.
What tools do you feel are must-haves for writers?
Only an imagination and some method of getting it down. Typewriter, computer, notepad.
How would you best describe your books?
Mysterious, suspenseful, romantic, adventurous, sprinkled with humor. I love blending genres.
What would you write if you could write anything you wanted to write?
I love this series, and I also love mysteries. I’m working on two mystery series now.
What do you most like about writing? Least like?
I love brainstorming, creating the plot twists for a story. Least like…promotion. I adore meeting readers, but I don’t like feeling as if I’m pushing my books.
Which is your favorite of the books you have written? Awaken is the story of my heart, but I also love Embrace. I don’t know. That’s sort of like asking which child you like better.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
It’s been amazing to see my book on the shelf.
What would you say is your biggest writing quirk?
I find it hard to write if I’m not motivated.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Other than spending time with my family, I’m usually on some kind of obsessive kick. It might be collecting candle holders or mirrors. I can devote an unhealthy amount of time to those things.
What are your current projects?
This series, a paranormal romantic mystery series, and a cozy mystery series.
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents?
I can smell a TJ Maxx from a mile away. I’m like a TJ Maxx bloodhound.
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
I have a lot of the same characteristics, but now they’re molded in different ways.
Do You Believe That The Cup Is Half Empty Or Half Full?
Depends on the day, usually half full.
Favorite Midnight Snack?
Whatever is the quickest.
Are You An Introvert Or An Extrovert?
Introvert who loves people.
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Window.
Do You Like Short Or Long Hair On A Guy?
I like both, but I probably lean toward long.
Ever Hit A Jackpot On A Slot Machine?
No. I’ve never been gambling. I spend all my time and money at TJ Maxx.
Are You Afraid Of Heights?
Uncomfortable.
Do you prefer your mattress soft or hard?
Soft.
How many pillows do you like to sleep with?
Lots.
Do you believe in snipes?
Only if they’re named Wesley.
Which do you like more—rainy days or snowy days?
Snowy.
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Diet Pepsi or Coke.
Are You A Heavy Or Light Sleeper?
Light.
Do You Have Any Phobias Or Fears?
Goofy ones. I don’t fear the real things that I should be afraid of.
Are you a night or a morning person?
NIGHT!!!
At The Beach Would You Rather Play In The Sand, Or Play In The Water?
I’ll dig in the sand for lost jewelry. Did I mention I love jewelry?
Do You Have A Recurring Dream? What Happens In It?
I do have recurring dreams, a few of them. It would take far too long to explain them since I don’t fully understand them.
Are You Usually Late, Early Or Right On Time?
Promptly 5 minutes late.
Where can we find you online?
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Goodreads
Redroom
NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Anita Clenney writes paranormal romance and romantic suspense. Before giving herself over to the writing bug, she worked in a pickle factory and a preschool, booked shows for Aztec Fire Dancers, and has been a secretary, executive assistant, and a real estate agent. She lives with her husband and two children in suburban Virginia. To find out more information, please visit http://www.anitaclenney.com/, follow her on Twitter @anitaclenney, or like her on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/anitaclenneyAUTHOR.
Some places Embrace can be purchased:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Booksamillion
Apple
We’ll leave you with an excerpt from Embrace:
Cody sighed. Might as well get it over with. He removed the shackles, returned them, and bent over her. “Shay, wake up.”
Her eyes flew open. She planted both hands against his chest and shoved, knocking him on his back, then sprang on top of him. “How dare you handcuff me to a bed?” she yelled, punctuating each word with a shake that rattled his brain. He didn’t fight back. She had to get it out of her system, and he didn’t blame her. He’d be more than pissed if someone shackled him.
She landed a fist into his stomach, and the breath rushed out of him. Okay, enough was enough. He captured her hands and rolled, trapping her under him.
“Get off me, you oaf.”
“I’ll get off when you stop beating the snot out of me.”
She let out a war cry and lunged for his throat, teeth bared. Intrigued, he hesitated a second too long, and she sank her teeth into his neck. A jolt of desire shot straight to his groin. He’d never been one for the rough stuff, but damn! He pulled back before she could do more than leave a bruise. He trapped her legs with his and held her hands above her head, letting his full weight press her into the soft mattress. She still struggled but could move only enough to get him excited.
“I’m sorry, Shay. I had to do it. It was too dangerous to let you go traipsing through the woods. I had to keep you safe.”
“What if he was hiding in one of the other bedrooms and sneaked in here while I was handcuffed to the bed? You left me so I couldn’t even protect myself.”
“Lach heard him out in the woods, but that’s why I locked the door, just in case. If this guy had broken it down to get to you, you would’ve screamed, and I would’ve come running. I was never far from the house.” He’d heard every name she called him.
Her eyes still flashed fire, but her breath was steadier, and she kept glancing at his mouth. He thought that was a good thing. He wondered if she’d calmed enough not to hit him, because he should move. She had to notice the effect all the wiggling around was having on him. He felt her hips push against his, and he groaned. He relaxed his grip and lowered his head, letting his lips touch her chin. He kissed his way to her mouth, and she head butted him in the nose.
While the stars exploded in his head, she shoved him aside and bolted out the door. He jumped up and went after her as she pounded down the stairs. He caught up with her outside. She was swinging her purse like a whip, headed for the car.
“Where are you going?” he demanded.
“Get away from me.”
“You can’t leave.”
“Watch me.” She opened the door. “I’m tired of people hiding things from me. I thought you were going to stop. Now you’re handcuffing me to the bed.”
“I explained it to you.”
“Don’t touch me,” she said, jerking away when he grabbed her arm.
“You’re not leaving.”
Shay straightened her shoulders. “You can’t stop me.”
He grabbed her, tossed her over his shoulder, kicked the car door shut, and stomped up the steps.
“Put me down!” Shay kicked and twisted, cursing at him. He dumped her on her feet inside the door.
She blew her hair out of her face, and as soon as she could see, she threw a punch at his chin. He deflected it and grabbed her arm. “Stop hitting me.”
“How dare you throw me over your shoulder like some kind of caveman,” she spat, trying to wrench her arm free. It didn’t work, so she used her knee.
“Ah, not there.” Cody trapped her knee. “I made the mistake of letting you leave here nine years ago without listening to me. By God, I won’t do it again. You’ll listen if I have to sit on you,” he growled.
She drew back her other arm, and before she could throw the punch, he had her on the floor and was sitting astride her, pinning her wrists to the floor. She bucked and twisted, but he held her down. “We can do this all night if you want, but you’re going to listen to me this time.”
“Listen to more lies? You’re still hiding things from me. Like the fact that you have Nina’s entire house under surveillance. Like the fact that you’ve got a Bat Cave in your basement. Like the fact that you were in Scotland when the stalking started.”
“You think I’m your stalker?” he yelled. “Me! I’m trying to keep you alive. We’re all trying to keep you alive. That’s what the clan’s been doing your whole damned life, trying to keep you alive! And just like always, you’re making it hard as hell. Your father wasn’t a bloody spy, and that thing in your living room wasn’t a man!”
>NYT Bestseller Anita Clenney Interview, Excerpt + Giveaway!
>Today, I welcome NYT and USA Today Bestseller Anita Clenney! Anita’s celebrating the release of her second book in the Highland Warrior series, Embrace The Highland Warrior. And we have a giveaway of a copy of the book and 5 custom handmade bookmarks. Simply comment to enter!
Anita, tell us about your upcoming release.
Here’s a blurb:
Cody MacBain let the woman of his destiny slip away. A member of an ancient clan of Scottish warriors, he grew up beside Shay Logan as her secret protector, but his heart compelled him to become more. Until Shay’s true identity was revealed, and the fated pair’s chance was gone…
But danger will drive them back into each other’s arms…
Shay fell for the boy next door, suspecting nothing of the ancient secrets he guarded. After a stinging betrayal, she’s determined to banish the memories of her first love forever. But the past can’t let go, and the boy she once loved has returned to her a warrior determined to protect her from the unspeakable evil fate has planned…
What’s your favorite thing about the book featured here today?
I love the emotion between Cody and Shay, the powerful connection they shared, and I love watching them try to reconnect now. They’ve changed so much, but the elements of their past are still there. I also love having all the warriors from Awaken helping them out. In the midst of turmoil and confusion, it gives a feel good element.
What sparked the idea for this book/series?
A dream.
What creates the biggest conflict between your hero and heroine?
A terrible betrayal, and secrets that will make your heart ache.
Why did you put these two together?
These two just seemed so natural. They belonged together, then all the secrets got in the way and messed up a good thing.
What is your strategy in creating villains?
I love my villains, one of them in particular. In fact, he’s so great I want to make him a hero. It’s either that or go back and do a prequel. His backstory is just wonderful. I don’t know how I come up with them. I can’t explain it. They’re just there. And I have so many of them. I love it.
What was the hardest part of this book to write and why?
Love scenes. I’m never sure how far I want to go.
Tell us something unusual about this book (i.e. in its creation, execution, production).
This second book was the first manuscript I ever wrote. It was originally a romantic suspense. I started writing the first book in this series, what is now Awaken, about six months later. When my agent saw Awaken, she said this is the one. She was right. She always is. I knew this had to be a series, and I realized that the first manuscript was the perfect second book of the series. So the first became second and the second became first.
What do you love most about this book/series?
I love this series. The warriors have become like family members to me. I love hidden treasure and secret things, old keys and graveyards and all those eerie things. They’re all in here. And I absolutely love that connection between a woman and a man that defies the universe to stop it.
Is there a message in this novel that you want readers to grasp?
There are some underlying messages. Evil doesn’t come up and say, “Hello, I’m evil.” But mostly, when readers pick up my books, I want them to laugh, cry, gasp, maybe even scream.
Does your novel have a theme? How did that come about?
I’m rotten at figuring out themes. It’s about Secret Warriors, Ancient Evil, and Destined Love. The series started with a dream and a very vivid imagination.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
If I had to choose…Elizabeth Peters who wrote the Amelia Peabody series.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
I think the stories I loved influenced me. I read, I felt, and I wanted to do it myself.
How does your family view your writing career?
They’re very supportive and proud of me. My husband is waiting for me to get rich and buy him a ranch.
What entity do you feel supports you most in your writing career outside of family members?
My critique partner, Dana Rodgers is amazing. She’s such a help to me.
How do you keep in touch with your readers?
Mostly email. It’s so great getting emails. That was something I wasn’t quite prepared for. What a thrill.
What is in your TBR pile?
I get a headache just thinking about it.
What would you like to tell readers?
Please buy my book…oh, you were serious. I adore this series, and I hope you do too. There are so many wonderful writers out there, that I cherish every reader who spends their hard earned money and time on me.
I have varied tastes ranging from romance to mysteries. I love Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander series and I also love Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series.
Do you have a second career? (Yes, motherhood counts!)
If motherhood counts, I have two! I spend a lot of time with my hubby and kids, but I do write full time.
What did you do before you became a full-time writer?
I was staying home with the kids for a few years, but prior to that I worked in real estate, and I was an administrative assistant. I’ve also booked shows and traveled with Aztec Dancers.
What, in your opinion, are the most important elements of good writing?
Good storytelling, really nailing down the characters and the emotion.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you started writing?
The importance of writing faster.
How do you develop your plots and characters? Do you use any set formula?
No formulas. I get an idea (this series started with a dream) then I mull it over and as the story unfolds in my head I make lots of notes, and then I start writing. I usually have a synopsis before I start actually writing the story.
What tools do you feel are must-haves for writers?
Only an imagination and some method of getting it down. Typewriter, computer, notepad.
How would you best describe your books?
Mysterious, suspenseful, romantic, adventurous, sprinkled with humor. I love blending genres.
What would you write if you could write anything you wanted to write?
I love this series, and I also love mysteries. I’m working on two mystery series now.
What do you most like about writing? Least like?
I love brainstorming, creating the plot twists for a story. Least like…promotion. I adore meeting readers, but I don’t like feeling as if I’m pushing my books.
Which is your favorite of the books you have written? Awaken is the story of my heart, but I also love Embrace. I don’t know. That’s sort of like asking which child you like better.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
It’s been amazing to see my book on the shelf.
What would you say is your biggest writing quirk?
I find it hard to write if I’m not motivated.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
Other than spending time with my family, I’m usually on some kind of obsessive kick. It might be collecting candle holders or mirrors. I can devote an unhealthy amount of time to those things.
What are your current projects?
This series, a paranormal romantic mystery series, and a cozy mystery series.
Do You Have Any Undiscovered Or Hidden Talents?
I can smell a TJ Maxx from a mile away. I’m like a TJ Maxx bloodhound.
Are You The Same Person You Were As A Child, Or Much Different?
I have a lot of the same characteristics, but now they’re molded in different ways.
Do You Believe That The Cup Is Half Empty Or Half Full?
Depends on the day, usually half full.
Favorite Midnight Snack?
Whatever is the quickest.
Are You An Introvert Or An Extrovert?
Introvert who loves people.
Are You A Window Person Or An Aisle Person?
Window.
Do You Like Short Or Long Hair On A Guy?
I like both, but I probably lean toward long.
Ever Hit A Jackpot On A Slot Machine?
No. I’ve never been gambling. I spend all my time and money at TJ Maxx.
Are You Afraid Of Heights?
Uncomfortable.
Do you prefer your mattress soft or hard?
Soft.
How many pillows do you like to sleep with?
Lots.
Do you believe in snipes?
Only if they’re named Wesley.
Which do you like more—rainy days or snowy days?
Snowy.
What is Your Favorite Beverage?
Diet Pepsi or Coke.
Are You A Heavy Or Light Sleeper?
Light.
Do You Have Any Phobias Or Fears?
Goofy ones. I don’t fear the real things that I should be afraid of.
Are you a night or a morning person?
NIGHT!!!
At The Beach Would You Rather Play In The Sand, Or Play In The Water?
I’ll dig in the sand for lost jewelry. Did I mention I love jewelry?
Do You Have A Recurring Dream? What Happens In It?
I do have recurring dreams, a few of them. It would take far too long to explain them since I don’t fully understand them.
Are You Usually Late, Early Or Right On Time?
Promptly 5 minutes late.
Where can we find you online?
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Goodreads
Redroom
NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Anita Clenney writes paranormal romance and romantic suspense. Before giving herself over to the writing bug, she worked in a pickle factory and a preschool, booked shows for Aztec Fire Dancers, and has been a secretary, executive assistant, and a real estate agent. She lives with her husband and two children in suburban Virginia. To find out more information, please visit http://www.anitaclenney.com/, follow her on Twitter @anitaclenney, or like her on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/anitaclenneyAUTHOR.
Some places Embrace can be purchased:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Booksamillion
Apple
We’ll leave you with an excerpt from Embrace:
Cody sighed. Might as well get it over with. He removed the shackles, returned them, and bent over her. “Shay, wake up.”
Her eyes flew open. She planted both hands against his chest and shoved, knocking him on his back, then sprang on top of him. “How dare you handcuff me to a bed?” she yelled, punctuating each word with a shake that rattled his brain. He didn’t fight back. She had to get it out of her system, and he didn’t blame her. He’d be more than pissed if someone shackled him.
She landed a fist into his stomach, and the breath rushed out of him. Okay, enough was enough. He captured her hands and rolled, trapping her under him.
“Get off me, you oaf.”
“I’ll get off when you stop beating the snot out of me.”
She let out a war cry and lunged for his throat, teeth bared. Intrigued, he hesitated a second too long, and she sank her teeth into his neck. A jolt of desire shot straight to his groin. He’d never been one for the rough stuff, but damn! He pulled back before she could do more than leave a bruise. He trapped her legs with his and held her hands above her head, letting his full weight press her into the soft mattress. She still struggled but could move only enough to get him excited.
“I’m sorry, Shay. I had to do it. It was too dangerous to let you go traipsing through the woods. I had to keep you safe.”
“What if he was hiding in one of the other bedrooms and sneaked in here while I was handcuffed to the bed? You left me so I couldn’t even protect myself.”
“Lach heard him out in the woods, but that’s why I locked the door, just in case. If this guy had broken it down to get to you, you would’ve screamed, and I would’ve come running. I was never far from the house.” He’d heard every name she called him.
Her eyes still flashed fire, but her breath was steadier, and she kept glancing at his mouth. He thought that was a good thing. He wondered if she’d calmed enough not to hit him, because he should move. She had to notice the effect all the wiggling around was having on him. He felt her hips push against his, and he groaned. He relaxed his grip and lowered his head, letting his lips touch her chin. He kissed his way to her mouth, and she head butted him in the nose.
While the stars exploded in his head, she shoved him aside and bolted out the door. He jumped up and went after her as she pounded down the stairs. He caught up with her outside. She was swinging her purse like a whip, headed for the car.
“Where are you going?” he demanded.
“Get away from me.”
“You can’t leave.”
“Watch me.” She opened the door. “I’m tired of people hiding things from me. I thought you were going to stop. Now you’re handcuffing me to the bed.”
“I explained it to you.”
“Don’t touch me,” she said, jerking away when he grabbed her arm.
“You’re not leaving.”
Shay straightened her shoulders. “You can’t stop me.”
He grabbed her, tossed her over his shoulder, kicked the car door shut, and stomped up the steps.
“Put me down!” Shay kicked and twisted, cursing at him. He dumped her on her feet inside the door.
She blew her hair out of her face, and as soon as she could see, she threw a punch at his chin. He deflected it and grabbed her arm. “Stop hitting me.”
“How dare you throw me over your shoulder like some kind of caveman,” she spat, trying to wrench her arm free. It didn’t work, so she used her knee.
“Ah, not there.” Cody trapped her knee. “I made the mistake of letting you leave here nine years ago without listening to me. By God, I won’t do it again. You’ll listen if I have to sit on you,” he growled.
She drew back her other arm, and before she could throw the punch, he had her on the floor and was sitting astride her, pinning her wrists to the floor. She bucked and twisted, but he held her down. “We can do this all night if you want, but you’re going to listen to me this time.”
“Listen to more lies? You’re still hiding things from me. Like the fact that you have Nina’s entire house under surveillance. Like the fact that you’ve got a Bat Cave in your basement. Like the fact that you were in Scotland when the stalking started.”
“You think I’m your stalker?” he yelled. “Me! I’m trying to keep you alive. We’re all trying to keep you alive. That’s what the clan’s been doing your whole damned life, trying to keep you alive! And just like always, you’re making it hard as hell. Your father wasn’t a bloody spy, and that thing in your living room wasn’t a man!”
NYT Bestseller Caridad Pineiro on THE LOST + Giveaways!
>I’m very excited to have Caridad Pineiro on the blog today! She’s hear to give a little background about her latests release, THE LOST. Make sure you leave a comment or ask Caridad a question to be entered to win a lost T-shirt, an ebook of Caridad’s ROOKIE OF THE YEAR and 1 of 5 of my custom handmade THE LOST bookmarks. (Couldn’t post them here, but see prior giveaways for example.)
Adam Bruno is no ordinary millionaire. The heir to an ancient race possessing a dark, powerful magic, he can shapeshift and create energy. His gifts make him a living weapon and have forced him to live in seclusion. But now an inhuman force hunts down Adam-just when he finds someone who makes him feel more human than he ever imagined possible . . .
Home from combat in Iraq, Bobbie Carerra wants only peace, yet soon joins Adam in a terrifying battle against paranormal enemies who hide in plain sight. She’s drawn to his strength of mind and body; he’s attracted to her courage and intoxicating energy. Their scorching passion can either transport them to the heights of ecstasy or-if Adam’s powers rage out of control-destroy them. But when an invisible brotherhood tightens its nets and someone Adam trusts betrays him, only a heartrending decision can save them.
Thank you so much for having me here today!
One of the things I love best about being a writer is being able to share so many of my favorite things and that includes the places and things that I’ve been lucky enough to experience first hand.
For example, I based the THE FIFTH KINGDOM on my travels to Mexico and a hike up the side of a Mexican pyramid despite my fear of heights.
THE LOST is located along one of my really really favorite places – the Jersey Shore. I’m not all that far from the beach and regularly go down to take long walks through all the assorted towns in order to research places for the novels in the Sin Hunters series.
Take the chase scene in THE LOST where Bobbie and Adam are forced to confront some men who have been following them. To write that scene, I walked nearly three miles from my usual haunts to Belmar and then Avon-by-Sea and back. Along the way I snapped photos of where the pivotal scene would occur in front of the Avon Pavilion.
When I was done with that, I turned my attentions to the other locations for the book, especially the town of Ocean Grove, also know as God’s Little Square Mile.
Bobbie Carrera has her condo in Ocean Grove and there are a number of scenes along the boardwalk there as well as the big black moment when Bobbie confronts Adam and asks him to have faith. I knew as I wrote that scene that there was only one place where it could happen: On the Auditorium Grounds in front of the famous Great Auditorium.
You may be wondering why I would pick somewhere like the Jersey Shore for a dark and sexy paranormal romance like THE LOST.
For starters, it’s possibly the last place that you would probably expect an ancient race of energy gatherers to be hiding out – the ol’ “hide in plain sight” concept.
Second, there is nature all around at the shore, from the ocean to the river to the many wetlands and small islands where a race like the Hunters could go to collect energy without being detected.
Not that Adam understands anything about being a Hunter at the start of THE LOST.
Adam is the missing son of Hunter leaders and has no clue that he possesses such powers. All that Adam knows is that he is different and that difference has kept him isolated from most of the world around him. It is only when he meets Bobbie and is drawn into a civil war he knew nothing about that Adam truly comes to understand the immense powers of which he is capable.
Thanks so much for having me here today! I appreciate you taking the time to come by.
Bookmarks & ebook (International)
**MUST** leave contact email to win!
>NYT Bestseller Caridad Pineiro on THE LOST + Giveaways!
>I’m very excited to have Caridad Pineiro on the blog today! She’s hear to give a little background about her latests release, THE LOST. Make sure you leave a comment or ask Caridad a question to be entered to win a lost T-shirt, an ebook of Caridad’s ROOKIE OF THE YEAR and 1 of 5 of my custom handmade THE LOST bookmarks. (Couldn’t post them here, but see prior giveaways for example.)
Adam Bruno is no ordinary millionaire. The heir to an ancient race possessing a dark, powerful magic, he can shapeshift and create energy. His gifts make him a living weapon and have forced him to live in seclusion. But now an inhuman force hunts down Adam-just when he finds someone who makes him feel more human than he ever imagined possible . . .
Home from combat in Iraq, Bobbie Carerra wants only peace, yet soon joins Adam in a terrifying battle against paranormal enemies who hide in plain sight. She’s drawn to his strength of mind and body; he’s attracted to her courage and intoxicating energy. Their scorching passion can either transport them to the heights of ecstasy or-if Adam’s powers rage out of control-destroy them. But when an invisible brotherhood tightens its nets and someone Adam trusts betrays him, only a heartrending decision can save them.
Thank you so much for having me here today!
One of the things I love best about being a writer is being able to share so many of my favorite things and that includes the places and things that I’ve been lucky enough to experience first hand.
For example, I based the THE FIFTH KINGDOM on my travels to Mexico and a hike up the side of a Mexican pyramid despite my fear of heights.
THE LOST is located along one of my really really favorite places – the Jersey Shore. I’m not all that far from the beach and regularly go down to take long walks through all the assorted towns in order to research places for the novels in the Sin Hunters series.
Take the chase scene in THE LOST where Bobbie and Adam are forced to confront some men who have been following them. To write that scene, I walked nearly three miles from my usual haunts to Belmar and then Avon-by-Sea and back. Along the way I snapped photos of where the pivotal scene would occur in front of the Avon Pavilion.
When I was done with that, I turned my attentions to the other locations for the book, especially the town of Ocean Grove, also know as God’s Little Square Mile.
Bobbie Carrera has her condo in Ocean Grove and there are a number of scenes along the boardwalk there as well as the big black moment when Bobbie confronts Adam and asks him to have faith. I knew as I wrote that scene that there was only one place where it could happen: On the Auditorium Grounds in front of the famous Great Auditorium.
You may be wondering why I would pick somewhere like the Jersey Shore for a dark and sexy paranormal romance like THE LOST.
For starters, it’s possibly the last place that you would probably expect an ancient race of energy gatherers to be hiding out – the ol’ “hide in plain sight” concept.
Second, there is nature all around at the shore, from the ocean to the river to the many wetlands and small islands where a race like the Hunters could go to collect energy without being detected.
Not that Adam understands anything about being a Hunter at the start of THE LOST.
Adam is the missing son of Hunter leaders and has no clue that he possesses such powers. All that Adam knows is that he is different and that difference has kept him isolated from most of the world around him. It is only when he meets Bobbie and is drawn into a civil war he knew nothing about that Adam truly comes to understand the immense powers of which he is capable.
Thanks so much for having me here today! I appreciate you taking the time to come by.
Bookmarks & ebook (International)
**MUST** leave contact email to win!
New Year’s Giveaway: Last Day! with Stephanie Tyler
>Stephanie Tyler and I are Twitter & Facebook buddies. I met Stephanie through my CP, Elisabeth Naughton, and got to know her online. After reading the first book in her romantic suspense trilogy, HARD TO HOLD, I was hooked.
Stephanie writes strong heroines, uber-hunky heroes and tight suspense. Nothing keeps me glued to the pages like that combination. YUM!
Like Larissa Ione, Stephanie was generous enough to take time out of her crazy schedule to read and quote my debut novel, FEVER…but even before it was FEVER.
Something I learned along the pathway to publication was that I not only needed quotes from established authors to sell my book to readers off the stand, I needed quotes from established authors to sell my book to editors off my agent’s query.
Stephanie spent her time reading and quoting the book even before I’d sold it. Even before it was shopped. My agent was thrilled with the quote and the book sold in a two book deal. The editor who bought my book recently said in an email, “Our publisher is a big believer that [cover quotes] make a huge difference for a debut…” Just one of the (less important) reasons I’m so grateful to have Stephanie as a friend!
Today, Stephanie has generously offered FIVE of her books up for giveaway — and the winners get to choose which book they receive: any one of the five books in her romantic suspense trilogies including the three books from her Hard to Hold series: HARD TO HOLD, TO HOT TO HOLD, HOLD ON TIGHT and the two books from her Shadow Forces series: LIE WITH ME or PROMISES IN THE DARK.
How cool is that?
Stephanie also writes erotic romance with co-author Larissa Ione under the pseudonym Sydney Croft.
Up For Win Today:
YOUR CHOICE of any one of the five books listed above.
To enter:
Follow me on Twitter: @joanswan & send me a tweet with #newyear in the message. (Tweet Here)
Upcoming Releases:
- TAKEN BY FIRE, her latest Sydney Croft release, June 2011
- IN THE AIR TONIGHT, book 3 in the Shadow Force series under Stephanie Tyler, July 2011
- NIGHT MOVES, book 4 in the Shadow Force series under Stephanie Tyler, September 2011
Works In Progress:
Stephanie is currently working on a NEW paranormal romantic suspense trilogy which will be published by NAL.
Contact Info:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Email
A very big thanks to all of you who followed the contest this month and entered to win! Another giganormous thank you to the authors who participated in the giveaway — each one of you holds a special place of gratitude in my heart.
I hope those of you interested in writing and reading will come back and visit often. I have some great stuff to share in the upcoming months!
>New Year’s Giveaway: Last Day! with Stephanie Tyler
>Stephanie Tyler and I are Twitter & Facebook buddies. I met Stephanie through my CP, Elisabeth Naughton, and got to know her online. After reading the first book in her romantic suspense trilogy, HARD TO HOLD, I was hooked.
Stephanie writes strong heroines, uber-hunky heroes and tight suspense. Nothing keeps me glued to the pages like that combination. YUM!
Like Larissa Ione, Stephanie was generous enough to take time out of her crazy schedule to read and quote my debut novel, FEVER…but even before it was FEVER.
Something I learned along the pathway to publication was that I not only needed quotes from established authors to sell my book to readers off the stand, I needed quotes from established authors to sell my book to editors off my agent’s query.
Stephanie spent her time reading and quoting the book even before I’d sold it. Even before it was shopped. My agent was thrilled with the quote and the book sold in a two book deal. The editor who bought my book recently said in an email, “Our publisher is a big believer that [cover quotes] make a huge difference for a debut…” Just one of the (less important) reasons I’m so grateful to have Stephanie as a friend!
Today, Stephanie has generously offered FIVE of her books up for giveaway — and the winners get to choose which book they receive: any one of the five books in her romantic suspense trilogies including the three books from her Hard to Hold series: HARD TO HOLD, TO HOT TO HOLD, HOLD ON TIGHT and the two books from her Shadow Forces series: LIE WITH ME or PROMISES IN THE DARK.
How cool is that?
Stephanie also writes erotic romance with co-author Larissa Ione under the pseudonym Sydney Croft.
Up For Win Today:
YOUR CHOICE of any one of the five books listed above.
To enter:
Follow me on Twitter: @joanswan & send me a tweet with #newyear in the message. (Tweet Here)
Upcoming Releases:
- TAKEN BY FIRE, her latest Sydney Croft release, June 2011
- IN THE AIR TONIGHT, book 3 in the Shadow Force series under Stephanie Tyler, July 2011
- NIGHT MOVES, book 4 in the Shadow Force series under Stephanie Tyler, September 2011
Works In Progress:
Stephanie is currently working on a NEW paranormal romantic suspense trilogy which will be published by NAL.
Contact Info:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Email
A very big thanks to all of you who followed the contest this month and entered to win! Another giganormous thank you to the authors who participated in the giveaway — each one of you holds a special place of gratitude in my heart.
I hope those of you interested in writing and reading will come back and visit often. I have some great stuff to share in the upcoming months!